Burnham-On-Sea marked Commonwealth Day on Monday (9th March) with a civic flag-raising ceremony.
Burnham’s Mayor Cllr Martin Cox was joined by local residents for the special ceremony besides the town flag pole at the end of the High Street and Abingdon Street to share in the celebration of the family of Commonwealth nations around the globe.
The event started with the arrival of the Mayor and Mayoress and a welcoming speech. After a short prayer and blessing by Rev Graham Witts, a message from the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth was given by students from King Alfred School.
A reading of the Queen’s message was made by Cllr Neville Jones, followed by the reading of the Commonwealth Affirmation by the Mayor’s Cadet and the raising of the Commonwealth flag, accompanied by the Commonwealth Anthem.
Mayor Cllr Martin Cox told Burnham-On-Sea.com he hopes the ceremony will become annual event in the town’s calendar.
“This unique initiative enabled participants to show their appreciation for the values that the Commonwealth upholds, and the opportunities offered for friendship and co-operation with fellow Commonwealth citizens around the world.”
Burnham-On-Sea was among 730 locations around the world where flag raising events were held.
