THE Commonwealth flag has been raised over a North-East civic centre.

Sunderland Mayor Cllr Alan Emerson was joined by civic guests, including the Deputy Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Frank Major, to raise the flag as part of the annual celebrations for Commonwealth Day.

It was one of more than 900 flags raised across the Commonwealth, including those unfurled by the Army Cadet Force at the four highest peaks in the UK.

Before the ceremony a series of messages was read out celebrating the aims and achievements of the Commonwealth.

They began with a message from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, read out at Sunderland civic centre by her regional representative, Mr Major.

It was followed by a message from the Secretary General of the Commonwealth read out Sunderland chief executive Irene Lucas.

Cllr Emerson said: "I'm delighted that so many of our community partners were represented at the ceremony.

"This is the fourth year of these annual events, and I'm proud that Sunderland is part of the collective expression of commitment to the Commonwealth going on in countries across the world.

"Many of our residents are from Commonwealth, and we all share the same values of international friendship and co-operation which it represents."

He added: "Raising the Commonwealth flag here at the civic centre is part a common act of witness in all member countries, re-affirming our shared commitment to democracy, development, and respect for diversity."