Grandparent of the Year

2026

Grandparent of the Year Nominees

Jenny Buist Nominated by: Sophie Spencer

Jenny Buist has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year for going above and beyond to support her daughter, Sophie, and her husband.

With a two-year-old in nursery and a new baby having just arrived, Sophie said that her mum has always been there while the couple juggle moving, job-hunting and everything that goes with raising a young family.

Sophie said that they “would be lost” without Jenny, who has “dropped everything” to look after her granddaughter, Maeve. Her selflessness has not been without its sacrifices as Jenny has given up her weekly catch up with friends and her voluntary work.

Jenny has not just been there when the couple needed help, but “proactively” made time to make sure she could look after Maeve.

Lesley Butler Nominated by: Polly Butler

Lesley Butler has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year for the constant support she gives her daughter and grandson.

Her daughter, Polly, said that her mother was always there lending practical help to look after her grandson, getting stains out of muddy football kit, baking for school cake sales and never missing a school play, sports day or special event. Polly added that “whatever he needs, she is there with a smile”.

Lesley has stepped in to alleviate the stresses of being a single parent, always being there to pick up her grandson and letting him stay the night when his mother is working, Polly said. Polly added: “Thanks to her unwavering support, I can work knowing he is safe, happy and surrounded by unconditional love. She has given him the most precious gift of all – a childhood filled with wonderful memories, encouragement and security.”

Lesley has managed all of this while dealing with her own struggles, Polly added, but said this never gets her down and instead she “faces every day with incredible energy, kindness and positivity, always putting her family before herself”.

Sue Pace Nominated by: Christopher Pace

Sue Pace has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year in recognition of the love, care and devotion she has shown her grandson, Colin.

Her nominator, Christopher Pace – Sue’s son and Colin’s uncle – explained that, despite living with a disability, Sue has always put Colin first.

He added that, since the day Colin was born, his grandmother has made it her priority to create lasting memories with him. “Whether it’s spending quality time with him, making him smile, or being there whenever he needs her, she gives him her whole heart,” explained Mr Pace.

“Even on days when she’s in pain or finding things difficult, she never complains.” He said the pair have built an “incredibly special” bond, adding: “She fills his life with kindness, patience, laughter and endless affection.”

Mr Pace said that his mother’s devotion to Colin “is an inspiration to our whole family”, showing “that being a grandparent isn’t about what you can physically do, it’s about the love, care and dedication you give, and she gives more than anyone could ever ask for”.

Sandra Dauny Nominated by: Laura Robertson

A grandparent battling breast cancer has been nominated for her continual courage and determination, ensuring that her “grandchildren are growing up surrounded by unconditional love and quiet strength”.

Her nominator, Laura Robertson, praised Sandra Dauny for giving herself and her husband the “greatest gift working parents could ask for” – complete peace of mind.

“We know our boys are not only safe, but cherished. Her kindness and unwavering support have helped our whole family thrive,” continued Mrs Robertson.

Ms Dauny ensures that priceless memories are created from the many adventures together, bedtime stories and a constant flow of ice creams, according to Mrs Robertson, who added that these are memories which will “stay with the children for the rest of their lives”.

The grandmother has not just provided childcare, but she has given them a second home, full of love and laughter, according to Mrs Robertson.

Jane McLoughlin Nominated by: Charlie Scurr

A “caring and loving nana” has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award for being “always there” when he needs her.

Jane McLoughlin’s son Charlie Scurr – on behalf of his son, 22-month-old Reggie – said that their relationship is one that constantly makes him “smile and laugh”, adding that she “always knows” how to make him feel “happy and loved”.

Reggie said: “Nana is very kind and spoils me with lovely new clothes, toys and, of course, ice cream. She always thinks about what will make me happy. “Every week, Nana also makes a big batch of lovely dinners to help my busy parents. She does so much to make life easier for my family, and I think that is really special”.

They added that, most of all, “Nana is lovely, caring and loving”, with Reggie saying “I know I can always count on her, and I feel very lucky to have her as my Nana”. He said: “I love you so much, Nana Jane, and I think you are the best Nana in the whole world. You definitely deserve to be Grandparent of the Year”.

Sarah Le Maistre Nominated by: Sarah Pereira

Sarah Le Maistre’s constant love and support for her grand-daughters has led to her being nominated for Grandparent of the Year.

Her nominator, Sarah Pereira, the mother of Mrs Le Maistre’s grandchildren, said: “She plays such an important role in the lives of her two grand-daughters and has always been there for them with unconditional love, patience and support.

“The bond she shares with both of them is incredibly special, and knowing they have their Nanny in their lives means more than words can explain.”

Miss Pereira said that what made Mrs Le Maistre so deserving of the award was because “everything she does often goes unnoticed”. She said that Mrs Le Maistre was never looking for “praise or recognition”, but simply helped people “because that is the kind of person she is”.

Miss Pereira added: “To us, she is much more than a Nanny. She is a constant source of love, strength and support, and we cannot think of anyone more deserving of this nomination.”

John Noel Nominated by: Sophia Sheldon

A grandfather who managed to find the strength to hold his family together while “in the midst of unimaginable heartbreak” has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year.

John Noel unexpectedly lost his wife and “soulmate” earlier this year, according to his daughter and nominator Sophia Sheldon. She explained that when the family lost “the most wonderful mum and nanny”, Mr Noel put everyone else first despite his own grief.

Mrs Sheldon said her father “goes above and beyond every day” by picking up his grandchildren from school and nursery, always being available to babysit and filling their days with “fun, laughter and adventure”.

“He’s been our rock,” she explained. “Whether he’s playing games, reading stories or simply spending quality time with his grandchildren, he has a remarkable way of making their world feel magical, even during the hardest time of our lives.”

Mrs Sheldon said Mr Noel is deserving of the award because he is “the best grandfather and father we could ask for”.

Janet Connolly Nominated by: Angie and Jack Connolly

A grandmother who helped her autistic grandchild progress from being unable to leave the house to attending college has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year after dedicating more than 20 years to caring for those around her.

Janet Connolly moved from the UK to Jersey 15 years ago to support her family, having previously spent entire summers in the Island helping care for her grandchildren. She has been nominated for an award by both her daughter Angie Connolly and her grandson Jack Connolly.

Mr Connolly said: “Her kindness, generosity and unconditional love have shaped our family.” Mrs Connolly has often looked after all six of her grandchildren at once so her daughters could go shopping without worrying – always with a smile on her face.

Angie Connolly said her mother’s care had helped her nephew progress from being unable to leave the house to now attending college. Through activities such as painting, Mrs Connolly has created strong bonds with her grandchildren and special memories for the family despite the challenges they have faced.

She has also found time to support Autism Jersey, initially volunteering in its shop before going on to take up paid work with the charity alongside her volunteering. Above all, her family said Mrs Connolly has always made them feel safe, even during the most challenging times.

Margarita Kinross Nominated by: Niamh O’Halloran

An Islander who always puts their grandson first has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year. According to Niamh O’Halloran, Margarita Kinross goes above and beyond for her grandson Theo, providing vital practical support to his mother, making him feel loved, and helps to support him in every area of his life.

Miss O’Halloran said Mrs Kinross was “always there to play, look after and encourage her six-year-old grandson”. She is never one to shy away from humouring her grandson, Miss O’Halloran said, adding that she would play any games Theo wanted and even went on scary rides with him at the funfair.

Mrs Kinross also picks Theo up from school whenever his mother is at work and needs the help, giving her the support she needs to continue providing for her family. Beyond practical help, Mrs Kinross also provides for her family financially, paying for Theo to attend private school.

Justine Boreham Nominated by: Aisha Stewart

A woman who had to “learn how to live her life again” after suffering a brain aneurysm and stroke has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year. Justine Boreham was put forward by her daughter Aisha Stewart, who praised the love and strength she has shown her grandchildren.

Mrs Boreham was left with life-changing injuries after suffering a brain aneurysm and stroke two years ago. “Despite everything she has been through, she has never let her grandchildren miss out on having the wonderful nanny they adore,” said Miss Stewart.

She added that Mrs Boreham had shown seven-year-old Scarlett and two-year-old Alfie “what true bravery looks like and how love can overcome even the hardest of circumstances”. Miss Stewart said her mother had demonstrated a level of resilience and strength that could not be taught in the classroom.

“She is proof that being a grandparent isn’t about what you can do physically; it’s about the love, strength and unwavering support you give,” she said.

Beth Le Poidevin Nominated by: Jazmin Mauger

A grandmother described as “the definition of strength, kindness and selflessness” has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year. Beth Le Poidevin was put forward by her granddaughter Jazmin Mauger, who praised her positivity and dedication to her family and others.

Miss Mauger explained that her grandmother was abducted as a child and placed into care, before later raising Miss Mauger’s father as a single parent. Despite the difficulties she has faced, Miss Mauger said: “She has never lost her positivity or desire to help others.”

She added: “When my parents had children, she moved in to help raise the three of us and has been a constant source of love, guidance and support ever since.” Despite recent health challenges, Ms Le Poidevin continues to support others by hand-making items to sell for charity and “never seeks recognition”.

Miss Mauger said that her grandmother’s warmth lights up every room, adding: “Everyone who knows her is better off for having her in their lives.”

Linda Coutanche Nominated by: Sophie Reid

An Islander who is described as “the glue” holding her family together has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award.

Linda Coutanche has been nominated for her “unconditional love, selflessness and unwavering dedication to her family”.

Her daughter and nominator, Sophie Reid, said: “She is the kind of grandparent who never hesitates to put everyone else before herself. Whether it’s helping with school runs, sleepovers, celebrations or simply being there when life becomes overwhelming, she is the constant our family can always rely on.”

Ms Coutanche held her family together when Mrs Reid was diagnosed with a brain tumour, supporting her through treatment, caring for her grandchildren and helping everyone deal with “the incredibly difficult challenges” the whole family went through during that time.

She is also treasurer of The Sophie Reid Neurological Association, devoting her time to helping others in the Island affected by neurological conditions.

Sharon Donnelly Nominated by: Sinead Donnelly

Sharon Donnelly has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year for her perseverance in always putting her grandchildren first, even when she is in pain.

Sinead Donnelly, her daughter and nominator, said “she does it all”. Four years ago, Miss Donnelly became very unwell and has faced difficulties since. But, her daughter said, “it doesn’t affect her relationship” with her grandson, Conan, who is three. She said: “She has shown immense strength for the past couple of years despite being in almost daily pain.”

Miss Donnelly spends time with her grandchildren, making the garden a fun and safe place to play, grows sunflowers with them and takes them to the park. Her nominator added: “She really does everything she can for us and no one quite makes Conan belly laugh the way she does.

“With Conan, as long as they’re both laughing together and causing mischief together, she’s happy.”

Jean Roche Nominated by: Eiryane Dean

A grandmother who encouraged her grandchildren to pursue their passions while also instilling a sense of community in them has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year.

Jean Roche “has been and continues to be an inspiration to the seven of us cousins every day”, according to her nominator and granddaughter, Eiryane Dean. Mrs Roche always supported her grandchildren growing up, taking them on trips to the beach, the Zoo, the Living Legend and the theatre.

Miss Dean said that alongside this, Mrs Roche inspired her grandchildren to get involved with the community – firstly, through helping with the St Saviour’s Battle of Flowers float. Doing this encouraged her grandchildren to volunteer for other organisations such as the Royal British Legion.

Mrs Roche welcomed her first great-grandchild this year, still showing the same energy she has had all her life, Miss Dean said. “Her wisdom and life experiences continue to teach us life lessons every day and her love is with us every day, now and forever,” Miss Dean added.

Tracey Rowland Nominated by: Claire Rowland

A “devoted” grandmother, who always takes time to help take care of her grandchildren, has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Claire Rowland nominated her mother, Tracey, and said that it was the little things that made her so deserving of the award.

“I never even have to think about packing things like wipes, snacks, nappies, toys, pants for my daughter when I visit mum and dad’s because mum has made it so easy to just pop in,” Claire said.

She added that she knew she could always depend on her mother, and said “there is never a pause or doubt that she would be too busy to care for her grandchildren”.

Claire continued: “It’s not just being equipped with all the gear it takes to raise a child, it’s the getting up in the middle of the night to soothe a crying child, making sure they have shade whilst they play, dashing to doctors’ appointments and building a jam-packed schedule full of activities for them over the holidays.”

Marta Camacho Nominated by: Kiara and Nicola Martins

A grandmother who is always going above and beyond for her family has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Marta Camacho has been nominated by her granddaughter, Kiara Martins, and daughter-in-law, Nicola Martins, for always making time for them and helping with childcare.

Six-year-old Kiara said: “She works really hard and has a busy job, but she always makes time for me. She picks me up from school, takes me to my clubs, looks after me during the day and I love staying at her house overnight.” Despite not being “related by blood”, Kiara said Ms Camacho treats her as one of her own: “She makes me feel safe, happy and so loved every single day.”

She continued: “Grandma Marta has shown me that family is made with love, not just blood. I am so lucky to have her as my grandma and I think she deserves to be best Grandparent of the Year because she makes my world a better place every single day.”

Helen Brunnock Nominated by: Skye Clifford

An Islander, who works long hours as a “care navigator”, has been nominated for Grandparent of the Year for the “enormous” help she gives both practically and financially to her young grandson.

Helen Brunnock has been nominated by her daughter-in-law Skye Clifford, who said: “She is an incredible Nanna and such an important part of our son’s life.”

Since her grandson was eight months old, Ms Brunnock has looked after him every week, often “straight after finishing a night shift, sometimes for days on end, despite being exhausted herself”.

When Miss Clifford’s mother became ill this year, she said Ms Brunnock’s support and childcare were “invaluable during such a challenging time”. She added: “Helen has also helped us financially, practically and emotionally, but most importantly she gives our son so much love, attention and happiness.

“We honestly couldn’t ask for a better Nanna and our son is incredibly lucky to have her.”

Ken Le Quesne Nominated by: Hannah Robinson

A much-loved grandfather who has spent decades caring for his family and supporting those around him has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Nominator Hannah Robinson said Ken Le Quesne was much more than a grandparent to his five grandchildren, describing him as a “Popa to everyone who knows him”.

Ms Robinson said Mr Le Quesne had always gone “above and beyond” including caring for his wife for more than 20 years while she lived with Parkinson’s disease. She said he did everything he could for his wife, as well as for the people in his family and wider community.

Even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Mr Le Quesne continued to try to do everything he possibly could for those around him, Ms Robinson said. She added that everyone who met him adored him and that he remained an important figure to so many people in his life.

Ms Robinson said many of them “would be so lost without him in our lives”, adding that his lifelong care, generosity and devotion to others made him a deserving nominee for the Grandparent of the Year award.

Marie Browne Nominated by: Jennifer Neill

A resilient grandmother who fought back from a serious illness to be there for her grandchildren has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Nominator Jennifer Neill said her mum, Marie Browne, was suddenly taken ill last October while returning from a “trip of a lifetime” in Canada and spent five weeks in intensive care followed by a further two weeks on the main ward.

At the time, Ms Neill was newly pregnant and also had a three-year-old daughter, Poppy. Against the odds, Mrs Browne made a full recovery with minimal long-term damage. Ms Neill believes her determination was driven in part by her desire to meet her new granddaughter, Lilly, as well as to be there for Poppy.

Ms Neill described her mum as “the strongest woman I know” and an “incredible example of health”, adding that doctors credited her recovery at the age of 70 to the good health and healthy lifestyle she had maintained before becoming ill. She said Mrs Browne still took her grandchildren swimming every week and could keep up with them at the park.

Describing her mum as “my rock”, Ms Neill said: “I am blessed to have her and so grateful she is still with us today.”

Bruce Holcroft Nominated by: Tilly Holcroft

A devoted grandfather who has been a constant source of support and strength for his family has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Nominator Tilly Holcroft said her “Papa” Bruce had always been there for her and her mum and had consistently supported them despite facing difficulties of his own.

She added that Mr Holcroft had adopted her mum when she was younger and in care, continuing to support and care for her ever since. She said her mum had undergone several operations over the years and Mr Holcroft had always been there to help, “going above and beyond” for them.

Ms Holcroft said they would be “lost without him”, describing her grandfather as “a rock to my little family”. Mr Holcroft, who is now 80, was also well known as a musician during the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s, having played in various bands in Jersey.

Describing him as someone who was “one to give without ever wanting to receive anything back”, Ms Holcroft said it was now her time to thank him for “stepping up to be not only the best Papa but also a father figure”, adding: “We love him to the moon and back.”

Goreti Da Silva Nominated by: Natasha McDougall

A devoted grandmother who gives her time selflessly to care for her grandson and support other families has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Nominator Natasha McDougall said that her mother, Goreti Da Silva, was “the very definition of an exceptional grandmother”, looking after her grandson two days a week so that both parents could return to full-time work while easing the financial burden of childcare.

Ms McDougall said Ms Da Silva never saw caring for her grandson as an obligation, but as “precious time spent with the little boy she adores”.

Her dedication was particularly clear when she cared for him for three weeks while his parents went on their dream honeymoon. Despite working full-time herself, Ms Da Silva managed every nursery drop-off and pick-up, prepared meals, bathed him, read bedtime stories and kept his routine as if his parents were at home.

Ms McDougall said her mother had given them the “priceless gift” of enjoying their honeymoon knowing their son was safe, happy and loved. She said that her mother’s generosity, patience and unconditional love made her “the best grandma our son could ever wish for”, adding: “For us, she truly is Grandma of the Year.”

Jackie Peltor Nominated by: Rachel Peltor

An Islander has been put forward for the Grandparent of the Year award for being “one of the biggest constants” in her young granddaughter’s life. Jackie Peltor has been nominated by her daughter, Rachel, who said that her mum consistently shows up with “endless love, patience and support” for her three-year-old granddaughter, Nayvi.

Rachel explained that when Nayvi was a baby, her father died, which changed their lives in a way “nobody could have imagined”. She continued: “My mum has been there through all of it, not only supporting me, but making sure Nayvi has always been surrounded by love, security, laughter and the happiest memories. “She is the person I can always rely on, no matter what.” Ms Peltor has been there for every milestone, big or small, and “gives so much of herself” to the family while never expecting anything in return, her daughter said, adding that Ms Peltor brings “stability” into their lives.

She concluded: “She just deserves Grandparent of the Year for everything she does – she deserves it for the way she gives herself to us selflessly”.

Suzanne Broadleday Nominated by: Kerry Gallie

A selfless grandmother who continues to put her family first despite facing significant personal challenges has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award. Nominator Kerry Gallie said her mum, Suzanne Broadleday, was “the most selfless, caring and devoted person” she knew and that it was impossible to put into words how much she did for the family.

Ms Gallie said that at 73, Mrs Broadleday still worked demanding 12-hour shifts, often starting her day at 4am, while also looking after her three-year-old grandchild two days a week. Ms Gallie said life had not always been easy for her mother. Two years ago, Mrs Broadleday was diagnosed with breast cancer but, following treatment, was given the all-clear a year ago.

Before Mrs Broadleday’s own diagnosis, her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and she had also become his carer. She said Mrs Broadleday never asked for recognition or expected anything in return, simply giving everything she had to the people she loved.

Describing her mum as “the heart of our family” and a “constant source of strength”, Ms Gallie said she was the person everyone turned to for help, comfort or advice.

Kaye Fontaine Nominated by: Annie Fontaine

A devoted grandmother whose love, care and support have made a lasting difference to her grandson and his parents has been nominated for the Grandparent of the Year award.

Kaye Fontaine’s daughter and nominator, Annie Fontaine, said she could not begin to describe the amount of love Kaye has for her grandson, saying that “the moment she sees him, her whole face lights up”.

Annie said their bond was “truly something special to watch” and that her family felt incredibly lucky to have such a “loving, devoted and wonderful granny” in his life.

She said that her mum always made time for her grandson, playing with him, encouraging him and, most importantly, making him feel “completely loved and cherished”.

No matter how busy life became, Annie said that Kaye would “drop anything at the drop of a hat” if he needed a cuddle, a helping hand, someone to make him laugh or simply someone to tell him how proud they were of him.

Annie added that Kaye provided the family with “a sense of comfort”, making her a deserving nominee for the Grandparent of the Year award.