FLAGPOLES across Monmouthshire were adorned with the Commonwealth flag on Monday 13th March as the Commonwealth Day was celebrated across the UK.

Chepstow Town Council celebrated the day by not only raising the Commonwealth flag but opening an exhibition of artwork created by students from surrounding schools in both Wales and England.

The students created their own Commonwealth flags which will now be displayed in the Gatehouse until 22nd March.

Chepstow Town Council appointed councillor Armand Watts as Commonwealth ambassador to lead the collaboration work with schools. He said: “Young people are the future of the Commonwealth.

“The more they learn about the traditions, beliefs and challenges of other countries, the greater will be their understanding and tolerance of the people and cultures that share our world.

“We wanted to encourage our children, who attend local schools on both sides of the border, to embrace the inclusivity that is fostered by the Commonwealth and take part by creating flags, which we will display as an exhibition in the Town Council Offices.

“There has been a real positive response from schools and I’m encouraging residents of the town to come and see some of the superb work they have produced.”

Mayor of Chepstow, Councillor Paul Pavia who raised the Commonwealth Flag above the Gatehouse added: “I’m delighted to be representing Chepstow in its participation in this great event.

“I’d encourage people to come along as we join others throughout the Commonwealth in a spirit of respect and understanding.”

Monmouthshire County Council also joined in on the celebrations by raising the Commonwealth flag at County Hall in Usk.

Council leader, councillor Peter Fox read the Commonwealth affirmation committing the council to “uphold the values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, to serving one another in a spirit of respect and understanding, and to advancing development, democracy and cooperation locally, nationally, and internationally.”

Chairman, councillor Jim Higginson read a message from the Commonwealth Secretary General and described how the ceremony provides a splendid opportunity for people from all walks of life to join with others in their local community to celebrate Commonwealth Day in association with fellow citizens.