Flag raising and drumming marked Sutton's celebrations of Commonwealth Day.

Before raising the flag of the Commonwealth in Sutton High Street this morning Sutton’s mayor Councillor Sean Brennan spoke of the importance and meaning of the celebrations.

Your Local Guardian: The mayor Councillor Sean Brennan raised the flag of the Commonwealth this morning

He said: "Joining together as members of one worldwide commonwealth community, and valuing the personal dignity and worth of every citizen, we raise this flag as a symbol of the ties and kinship and affinity we cherish.

"We draw inspiration from our diversity, and the opportunities for working together, as a rich source of wisdom and a powerful influence for good in the world.

"We affirm our commitment to upholding the values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, to serving one another in a spirit of respect and understanding, and to advancing development, democracy and co-operation locally, nationally and internationally."

Your Local Guardian: The Gary Mason Drummers entertaining the crowds

Those watching the ceremony were also entertained by the Gary Mason Drummers (pictured above).