A traditional ceremony marked Commonwealth Day in the coastal town of Southwold.

A traditional ceremony marked Commonwealth Day in the coastal town of Southwold.

More than 80 people gathered from the community of Southwold, including town councillors, representatives from the Royal British Legion and pupils from Southwold Primary School, to attend the ceremony at the town hall as part of the Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth initiative.

The event, which took place Monday morning, saw Southwold Town mayor Melanie Tucker reading the Commonwealth Affirmation along with a special message from Commonwealth secretary general, Patricia Scotland- before the event concluded with Cllr Tucker raising the Commonwealth Flag above the town hall.

Melanie Tucker said: 'It was good to see so many children, members of the public and councillors attending the flag raising event at the town hall today.

'It was so pleasing to see the children from the primary school joining the event too.

'It's important we remember the collegiality and fellowship of the commonwealth and its importance to our everyday lives.'

This year's theme was a 'Peace-building Commonwealth' with Secretary General Scotland's message asserting at a time of uncertainty the Commonwealth family of nations offers a source a of strength and hope for all members.

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Call Southwold reporter Simon Ward on 01502 525 832 or email simon.ward@archant.co.uk