The Isle of Wight paid tribute to emergency services on the Island and across the country at a flag raising ceremony to mark national Emergency Services Day today (Thursday), known as 999 Day.
The Isle of Wight Council held a short ceremony outside County Hall, Newport, led by council chairman Councillor Geoff Brodie.
At 09:00, the 999 Day flag was raised by Group Manager Jeff Walls, from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, before a moment of reflection to remember more than 7,500 emergency services personnel killed in the line of duty with a 2 minutes’ silence.
Others in attendance included Inspector Andy McDonald from Hampshire Constabulary, Darren Claydon from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service and Kerry Daly-Lees from HM Coastguard, alongside Mark Birch from Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat and Mark Southwell from Cowes RNLI.
Councillor Brodie said:
“999 Day is an opportunity for us to come together, raise the flag and give thanks in recognition of all the sacrifices and hard work both volunteers and staff in the emergency services carry out, in order to keep us safe.
“This was seen so starkly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, where in the face of insurmountable pressure, our emergency services continued to look after us. I felt it was more important than ever this year, to pay our thanks and respect.”
999 Day promotes the work of the emergency services, including using the emergency services responsibly, educating the public about basic lifesaving skills, and promoting the many career and volunteering opportunities available.
Council leader, Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox, added:
“I was honoured to attend and support the heroic men and women of the NHS and emergency services and reflect on the selfless work they do every day. On behalf of the Island, I would like to thank them for all they have done and continue to do for us.”
You can find out more about 999 Emergency Service day on their website.
