Wolverhampton is flying the Commonwealth Flag to mark Commonwealth Day today (Monday 10 March, 2014).

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More than 500 flags have been raised by councils and community groups throughout the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man in celebration of Commonwealth Day - the largest, single raising of the flag in the history of the Commonwealth.

The flag was presented to Wolverhampton Mayor Councillor Milkinder Jaspal last month by HM Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands and it is currently flying over the Civic Centre.

Her Majesty The Queen said: "I am pleased to learn that so many people will be taking part in the Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth initiative, which will see a record number of Commonwealth flags being raised on one day. I send my good wishes to all who are taking part."

The Commonwealth is made up of 53 sovereign states. It includes some of the world's largest, smallest, richest and poorest countries, with 2 billion citizens drawn from all faiths and ethnicities.

Beyond the ties of history, language and institutions, members are united by values set out in the Charter of the Commonwealth including tolerance, freedom of expression, respect for human rights, the rule of law, protecting the environment, access to health, education, food and shelter, and gender equality.

His Excellency Kamalesh Sharma, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, added: "Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth is a most imaginative way for people in local communities - wherever they live, learn or work - to join together with others throughout the Commonwealth in a spirit of respect and understanding to celebrate the variety and unmatched diversity of our global family."

  • released: Monday 10 March, 2014