Somerset West and Taunton (SWT) is once again raising the 999 Flag ahead of this year’s Emergency Services Day.
A flag raising ceremony hosted by the Vice Chair of SWT, Cllr Richard Lees and the Mayor of Taunton, Cllr Susan Lees, will commence at 10.50am on Friday, 2 September, outside Deane House, Taunton.
The event will be attended by members of the emergency services from Avon and Somerset Police, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, South Western Ambulance Service, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Exmoor Search and Rescue, HM Coastguard and RNLI Minehead.
Civic dignitaries will also be in attendance as well as SWT staff and Councillors.
During the ceremony, a short service will be led by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Revd James Clapham, where guests will be invited to observe a minute’s silence, along with tributes offered by the civic dignitaries and representatives from the emergency services.
National Emergency Services Day takes place on 9 September every year. Two minutes silence is held at 9am (the 9th hour of the 9th day of the 9th month) to remember emergency services personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Raising the 999 Flag, which will also be flown at West Somerset House in Williton, provides an opportunity to acknowledge the high-risk work undertaken by emergency services personnel, as well as educating the public and promoting volunteering opportunities.
Cllr Richard Lees said: “We’re proud to show support for our local emergency services by flying the 999 Flag again. Events over the last few years have only served to highlight their dedication and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to show our lasting appreciation.”
Cllr Susan Lees added: “Our blue light services are always there for us when we need them, working tirelessly to serve and protect our community, and it’s an honour to host this event to acknowledge their sacrifice and give thanks for their dedication in safeguarding our health and safety.”
Further information about Emergency Services Day and the 999 Cenotaph can be found by visiting 999Day.org.uk and 999cenotaph.org.uk.