Weekly coffeeshop Jèrriais chat sessions to start in May

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Weekly coffeeshop Jèrriais chat sessions to start in May

Some people aren't lucky enough to have Jèrriais speakers in their family or round and about them, or can't regularly commit to attending one of the existing evening classes. But many people say they'd like an opportunity to hear some Jèrriais, or even try out a phrase or two in relaxed surroundings.

In the Isle of Man, Ireland and other places with their own special but lesser-used languages - even Guernsey! - a chance to meet up regularly in a café or other relaxed social environment has proved a popular way to make getting into the local language as easy and pleasant as possible.

Thanks to Costa Coffee and Sandpiper, from Thursday 1st May a weekly casual get-together will be held at the Bath Street branch of Costa Coffee between 10.30 to 11.30ish every Thursday. These get-togethers will be free (but people will have to buy their own drinks) and there's no need to book, or stay for the whole session. Beginners can simply sit and listen or learn a weekly phrase or two; those who already have some Jèrriais can practise what they've got and learn some more; while native speakers are also invited to join in and are especially encouraged to come and simply natter away.