Day in history

December 31, 2023

December 31, 1968 marks the date of the world’s first underwater arrest. On that day, on the Isle of Guernsey, Police Constable David Archer arrested a diver for collecting these shellfish underwater – which is illegal.

Ormers, according to Guernsey law, must be collected on days of the full and new moon between January 1 and April 30. They must also be collected while standing up – not submerged or partially submerged in the water. The fisherman was both collecting our of season and underwater.

Taste Atlas says, “One of the most traditional ways to prepare ormers in Guernsey and Jersey, ormer casserole is a dish whose recipe dates back to 1673. The ormers are first soaked in water then removed from their shells, trimmed, and tenderized with a bat before they are rolled in flour and sautéed in Guernsey butter, and, sometimes, oil. Once browned, ormers are put in a casserole dish together with shallots and carrots, and seasoned with bay leaf, salt, and pepper, then baked for two hours. Alternatively, ormers can be scrubbed and tenderized first and then soaked in water, which is later used as stock for the casserole. Ormer casserole is typically served with Guernsey biscuits and Guernsey butter, but mashed potatoes and green vegetables work equally well.”