Commonwealth Day in New Romney 2022

Published: 17 March 2022

New Romney joined with towns and cities around the world to celebrate Commonwealth Day on Monday 14th March. More than 1000 Commonwealth flags were raised across the globe, in a shared celebration of this amazing family of nations. The local ceremony took place at the Princess Diana Memorial Gardens in Littlestone.

The Mayor of New Romney & Speaker of the Cinque Ports, Cllr Paul Thomas; Bishop of Dover - The Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin MBE; Deputy Lieutenant of Kent – Geoff Miles, together with other VIP guests were joined by members of the public for a short ceremony. Bishop Rose spoke movingly about the ties and importance of the Commonwealth Family and the need for our students to continue to remember and honour Commonwealth traditions. She also referenced the Ukraine family and the dreadful situation they are experiencing. Although not part of the Commonwealth, they are all very much in our hearts and minds.

Youngsters from local schools read poems and spoke movingly of what the Commonwealth means to young people today. The message from the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations was read by the Mayor’s Chaplain -The Very Reverend John Richardson.

After the Commonwealth Affirmation, the hoisting of the Commonwealth flag by RBL President, Dusty Miller, was followed by the Commonwealth Anthem, prayers, and the National Anthem.

In his closing statement, Town Mayor, Councillor Paul Thomas, reminded everyone of the strong ties between New Romney and the Ukraine via the charity, Chernobyl Children’s Life Line. We continue to remember and support them in their time of need.

Raising the Commonwealth Flag symbolises the joining together of members of the Commonwealth community. The ceremony publicly renews commitment to the Commonwealth, appreciation of its guiding values and the opportunities offered for friendship and cooperation with fellow Commonwealth citizens of all ages around the world.