Commonwealth Day 2026

16th February 2026 / News archive

This morning, Monday 9 March 2026, we marked Commonwealth Day with a flag raising ceremony outside the Town Hall.

We were joined by representatives from 9 Regiment RLC, who marched down the High Street before presenting the Commonwealth Flag to the Mayor of Chippenham, Cllr Kathryn Macdermid. Deputy Lieutenant Stephanie Millward delivered the address from His Majesty the King and the Commonwealth Affirmation.

The flag was then raised, accompanied by the Remembrance Buglers. The flag will be flown from the Town Hall for the remainder of the day.

Thanks to our guests from primary schools in Chippenham, Chippenham Royal British Legion, Chippenham Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, and the Chippenham Remembrance Buglers. Thank you, also, to the members of public who attended the ceremony.

A celebration of the prosperous Commonwealth we want

This year’s theme, “unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous Commonwealth”, highlights the Secretary-General’s commitment to facilitate the development of transformative, equitable and high-impact opportunities across the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, said:
“This year, Commonwealth Day calls us to action, to rally together to face today’s challenges and unlock opportunities that can deliver shared and lasting prosperity for all our people. Opportunity must reach people everywhere — from the smallest, most remote communities to the biggest cities. We are a family of nations whose endowments and common values position us to deliver the extraordinary benefits of a more prosperous and connected Commonwealth, if we work together.”

Commonwealth Day 2026

A celebration of the prosperous Commonwealth we want

Chippenham Town Council