A FLAG raising event is taking place in the centre of Bournemouth to mark Commonwealth Day on Monday.

It will be the first time Bournemouth has taken part in the occasion, which will include a specially written ‘Commonwealth Affirmation’ read out by the mayor, Cllr Rodney Cooper, outside the town hall.

The town will be joining others from across the world, with events happening in all 53 Commonwealth countries, and 500 flags are expected to be raised in total throughout the UK.

Cllr Cooper said: “We are thrilled to be part of such a unique event which will show Bournemouth’s commitment to the Commonwealth. This will be a great occasion so I hope people will join us to be a part of this historic moment.”