Communities raise the flag in support of the Commonwealth

Published: Monday, 11th March 2024

Pupils from St John's Primary School in Sevenoaks and Westerham Sea Cadets joined the Council Chairman, Cllr Alan Layland, to celebrate Commonwealth Day (11 March 2024).

The day is an international celebration of the Commonwealth of Nations marked by a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey in London.

Hosted outside Sevenoaks District Council’s offices, the Commonwealth flag was raised at 10am with prayers led by Reverend Anne Bourne.

Other guests included Robert Sackville-West, the Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, and Cllr Claire Shea, the Mayor of Sevenoaks.

Sevenoaks District Council Chairman, Cllr Layland, says: “Commonwealth Day is about celebrating the unity and inclusivity of the Commonwealth and I was delighted to be part of an event that is taking place across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific and Europe.

“The focus of this year’s day is ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth’. The theme highlights how all 56 member countries must harness their strengths by building resilience, unlocking potential and fostering a connected, digital Commonwealth. This transformation is vital to ensure a common future where no one is left behind.