Guildhall raises Commonwealth flag as Northampton joins in worldwide celebrations

The event, now in its third year, will see the Mayor of Northampton, Councillor Penelope Flavell, raise the flag outside The Guildhall. A specially written Commonwealth affirmation will be read out by the Mayor at the ceremony before the raising of the flag.

There will be more than 850 other flags raised in 38 Commonwealth countries around the world.

Councillor Mary Markham, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that Northampton is taking part in this event and showing its support for the Commonwealth and celebrating its values.”

Mayor of Northampton, Councillor Penelope Flavell, said: “I do hope that as many people as possible will join us in raising the flag outside The Guildhall on this international day of celebration.”

Bruno Peek, Commonwealth Pageantmaster of Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth, said: “This event is a positive and uplifting way for people to link with fellow citizens of the Commonwealth in a family that spans across oceans and continents. There is a real sense of promise and hope for the future in this current troubled world of ours.”

Lord Howell, president of The Royal Commonwealth Society, said: “The Royal Commonwealth Society is proud to be associated with Fly a Flag on Commonwealth Day and welcomes the flying of the Commonwealth Flag over public buildings throughout the whole Commonwealth network. Flying the Flag brings us all together in a great family of Nations, seeking to work together to help a troubled world.”