Bury’s first Jamaican flag-raising ceremony has been held outside the town hall today, Friday, to mark the 61st anniversary of Jamaican independence.

As well as remembering Jamaica’s independence from British colonial rule, the event marked the 75th anniversary of HMT Windrush docking in the UK.

The special occasion was attended by the the council leadership, the mayor of Bury, mayoress Gill Hargreaves, as well as councillors and members of the Bury Jamaican community.

Bury mayor, Cllr Sandra Walmsley, said: “I was delighted to commemorate Jamaican Independence Day by hosting Bury’s first civic reception and flag-raising ceremony to recognise this special occasion.

“This year marks 61 years since Jamaica’s independence from British colonial rule and the 75th anniversary of HMT Windrush docking in the UK.

“There were several hundred passengers aboard the ship from Jamaica and this generation helped to rebuild this country after the war, something for which we should be truly grateful.

“We are lucky to have first-generation Jamaicans and their families living in Bury, contributing to our community and sharing their rich culture, history and traditions.

“I wish all Bury Jamaicans a happy Independence Day and hope you enjoy the celebrations.”