Mayor to lead flag raising ceremony

MAYOR of Warrington Ted Finnegan (pictured)will lead this year’s flag raising ceremony to mark Commonwealth Day on Monday, March 9.
A specially written Commonwealth Affirmation will be read out by Cllr Finnegan at Warrington Town hall to coincide with national and international events.
For the first time in maritime history, the 11 Ships of P&O and Cunard Line will be raising the Commonwealth flag at various locations as they cruise around the world at 10.00hrs on the day.
This unique initiative, building on highly successful inaugural events last year, will see more than 650 other Commonwealth Flags raised in 38 Commonwealth countries.
It has caught the imagination of thousands of participants around the world, enabling people of all ages in their local communities to become involved and join with others worldwide in associating themselves with widespread public expression of commitment to the Commonwealth, appreciation of the values it stands for, and opportunities offered to its citizens.
Bruno Peek, pageantmaster of “Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth” said: “I am delighted that P&O and Cunard Line are taking part in this way, and applaud their forward thinking and hope that those on board ship that morning enjoy this unique experience.”
For the first time, cadets from the Royal Air Force Air Cadets will be taking part. With flags flown by cadets in each of the six regions of the Air Training Corps.
Charity Teams from Fields of Life, a Northern Ireland and Uganda based charity will mark the day by taking Commonwealth Flags to the top of the UK’s four highest peaks and will use the occasion to raise valuable funds for their worthy cause.
Commonwealth Flags will also be flown at many locations of special significance that morning.