THE Commonwealth flag has been flying proudly in Wychavon.

The district council raised the flag outside the Civic Centre, in Pershore, on Monday as part of a ceremony of dedication to mark Commonwealth Day 2017.

Commonwealth Day is held on the second Monday in March each year and is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to promote the values of peace, democracy and equality that the Commonwealth stands for.

The theme for the day this year was ‘a peace-building Commonwealth’.

Before the flag was raised, Cllr Frances Smith, Chairman of Wychavon District Council, read a specially-written speech.

“I am really pleased that once again Wychavon District Council is committed to supporting Commonwealth Day by raising the Commonwealth flag," she said.

"Commonwealth Day enables us all to show our appreciation for the values the Commonwealth upholds in providing a source of strength and hope for the principle of international peace and security at this time of great uncertainty in the world.

"Our Queen, as head of the Commonwealth, sets a perfect example by acknowledging the opportunities offered for friendship and co-operation with fellow Commonwealth citizens around the world and I am proud to raise this flag to show our appreciation.”

More than 850 other Commonwealth flags were raised around the world on Monday.