The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey has been inhabited for many thousands of years, as can be seen from the neolithic tomb at La Hougue Bie. The Normans made the greatest impact on the Channel Islands, annexing them to the Duchy of Normandy during the 10th century. When William of Normandy gained the English crown in 1066, the Channel Islands became part of the Anglo-Norman realm; they were retained after the loss of Normandy in 1204. As a mark of his gratitude for their loyalty, King John granted Jersey its own constitution; this has been ratified by every successive monarch and the connection between the island and the English throne is expressed in the flag, which contains a crest surmounted by the Plantagenet crown.

Like its neighbours, Jersey has at various times been a haven for smugglers and pirates, and is also vulnerable to attack due to its proximity to France, so often Britain’s enemy in the past. The mixture of languages – English, French and Norman-French – reflects the history of the island.

Jersey is highly developed for tourism. It boasts a formidable array, for its small size, of modern attractions and special events catering for its huge number of visitors. The island does not neglect its natural and historical assets though – there is plenty of historical interest as well as many beautiful scenic attractions.

116 sq km (45 sq miles).

90,800 (2005).

753 per sq km.

St Helier. Population: 28,310 (2001).

Dependency of the British Crown.

English is the official language. A dialect of Norman-French is still spoken by some people. French is still used in courts.

Each of Jersey’s parishes has its own Anglican church, but some parishes, particularly St Helier, have been subdivided to provide more than one centre for Church of England worship. There are 12 Roman Catholic and 18 Methodist churches, as well as a wide range of free churches.

GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).

Similar to the UK, with French influences (see the United Kingdom section).

240 volts AC, 50Hz.

Chief Minister Senator Frank Walker since 2005.

Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by the Lieutenant-Governor Sir John Cheshire.