Bassetlaw District Council joined communities across 56 Commonwealth nations to mark Commonwealth Day as part of the annual international celebration.
This year’s theme, “Unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous Commonwealth,” highlighted the importance of creating fair and high‑impact opportunities for people across the Commonwealth, from small rural communities to major cities. The theme also aligned with the focus of the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.” Together, both themes emphasised the importance of partnership in addressing global challenges and building long‑lasting opportunities for the 2.5 billion people who live and work across the Commonwealth.
As part of a nationally co‑ordinated programme, Bassetlaw hosted two flag‑raising ceremonies at Worksop Old Market Square and Retford Market Square. At the Worksop event, the Chair of the Council, Cllr Tony Eaton, was joined by pupils from Worksop Priory C of E Primary Academy, who delivered a musical performance. In Retford, the Vice Chair of the Council, Cllr David Naylor, attended the ceremony, which featured a performance from St Swithun’s Primary School Choir. Councillors at both locations read the specially written Commonwealth Affirmation.
Cherryl Lacey JP and Jan Richardson, Deputy Lieutenants for Nottinghamshire, also took part in the ceremonies in Worksop and Retford respectively, each delivering the Commonwealth Day Message from HM King Charles III.
Reflecting on the day, Cllr Eaton said: “Commonwealth Day is an opportunity for communities across Bassetlaw to reflect on the values that unite the Commonwealth family, democracy, cooperation, and our shared commitment to creating a fairer and more sustainable future. As we raised the Commonwealth Flag, we stood alongside millions of people around the world in celebrating our collective heritage and the principles of friendship and understanding that continue to strengthen our international partnerships. I am proud that Bassetlaw played its part in marking this important day.”
Last Updated on Monday, March 9, 2026