PEOPLE in Dorset are being invited to join dignitaries for a Commonwealth Day Flag Raising Ceremony outside County Hall next week.

This year’s theme, ‘Unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous Commonwealth’, reflects the commitment of Commonwealth Secretary‑General Shirley Botchwey to fostering “shared prosperity and addressing global challenges collectively”.

The ceremony, taking place in the Memorial area on Monday, March 9 at 10am, will open with a prayer delivered by the Minister, Revd Ruth Lownsbrough of Dorset South and West Circuit.

St Osmund’s School Choir will then perform All Over the World.

The affirmation will be presented by the chair of Dorset Council, Cllr Stella Jones MBE, followed by the reading of The King’s Message by HM Lord‑Lieutenant, Michael Dooley LVO.

The Commonwealth Flag will be raised by Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet, ACF Aggy-Su Jamie.

High Sheriff of Dorset, Callum Bremner JP, will deliver the message from the Secretary‑General.

The ceremony will also include a special address from Dorset Council officer and Commonwealth descendant Sivo Ratulailai, who will speak about her 22‑year career in the British Army.

During this time, she became the first Fijian female to complete full service.

Her father was one of 212 Fijians recruited in 1961, making him a Commonwealth Veterans.

St Osmund’s School Choir will perform Many Nations, before Revd Lownsbrough delivers the closing prayer.

The ceremony concludes with the playing of the National Anthem, performed by Fred Slade of the Durnovaria Silver Band.

Commonwealth citizens, councillors, staff and members of the public are invited to attend.