THE Commonwealth flag was raised in Barnard Castle to mark the national ‘Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth’ day this morning (March 9).

Town Mayor, John Blissett, led the ceremony and gave a welcome address while members of Teesdale School’s Student Leadership Team, Katherine Harding, Lizzie Knight and Calsie Taylor read messages from the Queen, Commonwealth Secretary-General and Commonwealth Affirmation.

The flag was raised by Kieran West and Kyle Ritchie at 10am to the Commonwealth Anthem in line with this year’s theme: A Young Commonwealth.

It is the first time the town has taken part in the event, now in its second year, and was one of seven communities in County Durham to reaffirm the commitment of all Commonwealth member states to democracy, development and respect for diversity.

Town clerk, Michael King, said: “We are very pleased to have played our part and be one of seven communities across County Durham to have taken part.

“It’s just a nice event marking the Commonwealth and because our flag pole is right next to the castle there’s that sense of history as well.”