The Mayor of Waverley, Councillor Penny Rivers, was joined by Waverley Borough Council staff and representatives from the emergency services to raise a flag for Emergency Services Day this morning.
Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day, is a national day across the UK. It is supported by HM The King, HRH The Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister and First Ministers of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
999 Day gives people a chance to show support for the heroic men and women of the NHS and emergency services and offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on the very important work they do. It also offers the emergency services an opportunity to talk about using the services responsibly, educate the public about basic lifesaving skills, and promote the many career and volunteering opportunities available.
Councillor Rivers was joined by several guests including Leader of the Council Paul Follows, Councillor Paul Rivers, Councillor David Munro, and Councillor Michael Higgins. Rev. James Rattue of St. John’s Parish Church, Farncombe helped the Council mark the event, with prayers and a moment of reflection outside the Council offices to remember all who have been killed during their service.
Welcoming people at the flagpole in the misty sunlight of the morning, Mayor of Waverley, Councillor Penny Rivers said,
“It is a great pleasure and honour to be here today, marking this occasion for our community. It is right to stop and recognise those who serve our Emergency Services and those who have served. It is right to take time and pay tribute to those who step up for those in need - the 999 heroes. It is right to thank them all and including those who serve as Special Constables, Retained Firefighters, NHS Community Responders, the St John Ambulance, RNLI, Search and Rescue and Coastguard volunteers. On behalf of Waverley – Respect.”
Representatives from the Police and Fire and Rescue services thanked Councillor Penny Rivers for inviting them and were grateful for the time of reflection.