THE FLAG was raised over the roof of Solihull Council House in celebration of Commonwealth Day.
At a ceremony, the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Flo Nash, was joined by Deputy Lieutenant Dr John Hudson OBE and the High Sheriff of the West Midlands Chris Loughran.
Also in attendance were Baroness Lorely Burt of Solihull, Dame Caroline Spelman Meriden MP, Solihull Police commander Lee Wharmby, other honorary aldermen and councillors.
Marston Green Junior School pupil Neve Russell was chosen to give the order for the flag to be raised after she had won a borough-wide competition where participants had to create a piece of work inspired by the Commonwealth. Neve was also given a gift card and a certificate for her prize-winning art.
As part of the ceremony, Dr Hudson read the Commonwealth dedication from Her Majesty the Queen and the Mayor read out the Commonwealth affirmation.
The Mayor said: “It was a privilege to be involved with this year’s Commonwealth Day, which celebrates the cultural diversity and unity which defines the Commonwealth.
“I am also pleased that here in Solihull, our school children have the opportunity to be at the heart of the celebration and I would like to congratulate Neve and all the other children on their fantastic work.”
