Flying the flag for Commonwealth Day
Guest including the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, secondary pupils, representatives from the Royal British Legion and soldiers from the 3 Scots infantry based in Fort George joined the Provost of Inverness earlier this morning to mark Commonwealth Day.
This annual international celebration of the Commonwealth has been established to promote understanding on global issues, international co-operation and Commonwealth values with the 2016 theme being “An Inclusive Commonwealth”.
Speaking after the ceremony, Provost Helen Carmichael said: “The Commonwealth is made up of more than two billion people across 53 countries so this year’s theme celebrating its diversity is very fitting. We are all different and have something unique to offer and share with others but despite these differences we also share a lot values including tolerance, respect and understanding. The need for mutual support, development and growth of opportunity is today as great as ever and it has been an honour to host our ceremony to embrace our friends from around the world.”
On the 20th Feb Cyclone Winston struck the Fijian Islands causing widespread devastation across the country. This was the most severe storm to hit Fiji since records began leaving 350,000 people directly affected by the storm, around 40% of the Islands population. As a large number of Fijian soldiers serve within 3 SCOTS, after the Commonwealth Flag was raised, some of the soldiers treated guests to a performance of traditional songs to raise awareness and funds for their families and friends back home.
Capt Allan H Cunningham from The Royal Regiment of Scotland added: “Fiji is a proud nation whose soldiers serve with pride and distinction within the British Army. Singing is a large part of their culture so it is very fitting that today, as we celebrate Commonwealth Day, the soldiers share their passion for singing and at the same time draw attention to the plight suffered by so many following Cyclone Winston.”