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A new language commission is to be set up to help promote and protect the use of Guernsey French.

The 2001 census revealed Guernesiais was spoken daily by about 1,300 people.

The new commission launched by the culture and leisure department will be responsible for promoting the language.

Deputy Darren Duquemin said it was important to save the language as it was a "vital part of the island's heritage".

The Guernsey Language Commission is being formed to provide support and additional resources for those already involved in promoting Guernsey French.

Deputy Duquemin said: "There are a lot of great organisations involved in Guernsey French and keeping it alive but we set up the commission to provide them with support from government and financial support from the private sector as well.

"I think it was beyond my expectations how keen the whole Guernsey French community are in the commission and seeing it move forward."