The annual Commonwealth Day Flag Raising Ceremony for Dorset was held at the Memorial area outside County Hall in Dorchester on Monday 9 March at 10:00am.
This year’s theme, ‘Unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous Commonwealth’, highlights the importance of cooperation among member nations to create equitable, transformative, and high impact opportunities for all citizens. The theme reflects the commitment of Commonwealth Secretary General Shirley Botchwey to fostering shared prosperity and addressing global challenges collectively.
Among those attending the ceremony were the Revd Ruth Lownsbrough of Dorset South and West Circuit, followed by a performance of All Over the World by St Osmund’s School Choir.
The Affirmation was presented by the Chair of Dorset Council, Cllr Stella Jones MBE, followed by the reading of The King’s Message by HM Lord Lieutenant, Mr Michael Dooley LVO.
The Commonwealth Flag was raised by Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet, ACF Aggy-Su Jamie, and the High Sheriff of Dorset, Mr Callum Bremner JP, delivered the Message from the Secretary General.
This year the ceremony included a special address from Mrs Sivo Ratulailai, Dorset Council Officer and Commonwealth descendant. Mrs Ratulailai spoke about her 22 year career in the British Army, during which she became the first Fijian female to complete full service, as well as the service of both her husband and her father.
St Osmund’s School Choir then performed Many Nations, before Revd Lownsbrough delivered the closing prayer.
The ceremony concluded with the playing of the National Anthem, performed by Mr Fred Slade of the Durnovaria Silver Band.
You can liten to our recording of the ceremony below…
Audio recording and photos (click to enlarge) by Andy Worth
