Pupils from Ashby CofE Primary School took part in the Commonwealth Day service held at the War Memorial Garden in Brook Street today (Monday).

The ceremony was led by Rev. Sue Field, of St Helen's Church, and was attended by Councillor Avril Wilson, Mayor of Ashby de la Zouch, and Town Council leader, Chris Smith.

The children helped to raise the Commonwealth Flag and read out the Commonwealth Affirmation.

Rev. Field read out a welcome message to everyone in attendance, as well as leading the group in prayer and a rendition of God Save the King.

Co-Head Teacher, Jo Trahearn, said: "We've been talking about it class, it aligns with all of our values as a school.

"We are constantly teaching the children about the environment, tolerance, diversity and respect. So the day summed up all of our school values.

The children helped raise the Commonwealth Flag at the War Memorial Garden in Ashby

"It's a real privilege for the children to be part of this, and we'll be sharing the Affirmation with all of our classes and getting them to understand the importance of the Commonwealth message."

Cllr Smith later posted: "Ashby's celebration of Commonwealth Day was a very inspiring event where the Commonwealth flag was raised and children from Ashby CofE Primary School read out the Commonwealth Act of Affirmation.  

"Some really good messages for our times: Desire for peace among all peoples and nations; respect for the natural world; joining together in kinship and affinity, in diversity and unity; co-operate for the common good.

"Messages that everybody who volunteers their time, whether it be as a councillor or other groups, I'm sure strives to work towards."

Commonwealth Day is the annual celebration of the Commonwealth of Nations and often held on the second Monday in March.

It is marked by an Anglican service in Westminster Abbey, normally attended by the monarch as Head of Commonwealth along with the Commonwealth Secretary General and Commonwealth High Commissioners in London.