St George’s Day, flag-raising event in Huntingdon 2015
On Thursday 23rd April, the Chairman of Huntingdonshire District Council, Councillor Alan Mackender-Lawrence, invited VIPs, town councillors, and residents from Huntingdonshire to take part in the annual St George’s Day flag-raising event outside of the Council offices in Huntingdon.
The Royal Naval Association’s Huntingdon & District Branch were represented by shipmates Karl Webb, Victor Lucas and Andrew Milton, in addition, St Neots and District Branch was represented by shipmates Mike Milne and Keith Ridley. Three of these shipmates were undertaking public duties, shipmate Victor Lucas is the High Sheriff of Cambridge and gave one of the speeches. Shipmate Andrew Milton is the vicar of All Saints Church and Blessed the Flag of St George during the ceremony. Shipmate Keith Ridley is the Standard Bearer of St Neots & District Branch and joined the Standard Bearers from the Royal British Legion and Royal Air Force Association. Shipmate Karl Webb, Huntingdon Branch Secretary, and shipmate Mike Milne, St Neots Branch Chairman, also represented their Branches and the local community.
The ceremony began with Cllr Alan Mackender-Lawrence welcoming all VIPs and guests for the flag raising. He then handed over to Reverend Andrew Milton who Blessed the Flag and brought everyone together for prayers.
The Flag of St George was then hoisted in front of Castle Hill House, the wartime home of the RAF’s Pathfinder Force. As the flag was raised, the Association Standards were lowered in the usual mark of respect.
With the Flag of St George hoisted, Colonel Derek Bristow DL gave a speech on the significance of the day and to give thanks to those in attendance.
This was followed by a speech from the newly appointed High Sheriff of Cambridge, Victor Lucas DL.
With the proceedings complete, Cllr Alan Mackender-Lawrence invited all participants back to the Civic suite for refreshments.
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To see more pictures from the St George’s Day flag-raising event, click on the first thumbnail below and scroll through the images.
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