Havering honours emergency services with 999 flag raising

Key Points

• Havering Council marked Emergency Services Day by raising the official ‘999’ flag at Havering Town Hall, Romford, on Tuesday 9 September 2025.
• The event was led by Mayor of Havering, Councillor Sue Ospreay, who paid tribute to those working and volunteering across the NHS and emergency services throughout the UK.
• A two-minute silence was observed to remember emergency service workers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
• Guests included Council staff, serving personnel of the Metropolitan Police, borough representatives, and emergency service workers.
• The ceremony emphasised the importance of respecting emergency services and recognising their selfless dedication.

What was the significance of the flag raising event in Havering?

Havering Council marked the national Emergency Services Day by raising the official ‘999’ flag outside Havering Town Hall in Romford on Tuesday, 9 September 2025. This act symbolised the borough’s public tribute to those working and volunteering in the NHS and across all emergency services in the UK, acknowledging their vital role and sacrifices.

As reported in the official Havering Council release, the flag raising ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate the dedication and bravery of emergency service workers while encouraging communities to learn basic lifesaving skills. The event also urged citizens to respect emergency services by using their help appropriately, emphasising responsible reliance on these essential services.

Who led the ceremony and what were their key messages?

Mayor of Havering, Councillor Sue Ospreay, officiated the flag raising and delivered a heartfelt tribute. She said, “Emergency Services Day gives us the chance to show our support for the selfless men and women who protect us, serve our country and keep us safe every day. They are an example to us all, and I would like to thank them for their continued hard work in serving our borough”.

Her words underscored the community’s gratitude and respect for the unwavering efforts of emergency personnel, from frontline NHS staff to police, fire, and ambulance services.

Who were the attendees of the event?

The ceremony was attended by a range of local dignitaries and representatives. Besides the Mayor, council staff and representatives from the Metropolitan Police Service were present, joining borough officials to collectively honour emergency service workers. This gathering highlighted the joint community and institutional effort to recognise the sacrifices of those in emergency roles.

What symbolic actions took place during the ceremony?

A solemn two-minute silence was observed to remember emergency service workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, reinforcing the gravity and respect of the occasion. The raising of the ‘999’ flag itself stands as a powerful emblem of solidarity and appreciation for all emergency services.

How does Havering’s tribute fit within the broader context of Emergency Services Day?

Emergency Services Day is a nationally recognised day celebrating the work of all emergency services employees and volunteers. It promotes awareness about lifesaving skills that everyone should know and encourages public respect for the appropriate use of emergency services.

Havering’s flag raising ceremony is part of this wider initiative, emphasising local government support and community recognition of emergency personnel’s crucial contribution, as highlighted by both the council and local media outlets like Bedrock Radio.

What messages were shared by other local leaders about emergency services?

According to Bedrock Radio coverage by journalist [unnamed], the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Gerry O’Sullivan, also expressed his appreciation during a similar flag raising event, reflecting a consistent borough-wide commitment to honouring blue light workers. He stated:
“Emergency Services Day gives us the chance to show our support for the selfless blue light workers who go above and beyond to protect and serve our residents every day of the year. We recognise the importance of respecting our emergency services by only requesting their help when it is appropriate to do so”.

This statement reinforces the core theme of respect coupled with gratitude throughout the borough’s Emergency Services Day commemorations.

Why is it important to use emergency services appropriately, as stressed in the event?

Both the council and local officials have reiterated that while emergency services perform invaluable roles, it is essential for the public to rely on them responsibly—only calling upon their assistance when genuinely necessary. This helps ensure resources are available for those in real and critical need, maintaining service effectiveness and safety for all.

Such awareness and etiquette are vital messages promoted during Emergency Services Day celebrations like Havering’s, encouraging the community to practice thoughtful respect toward these essential lifelines.

How does Havering continue its support for emergency services beyond the flag raising?

Havering Council’s ongoing support for emergency services is evident through initiatives including public awareness campaigns, partnerships with local safety organisations, and events recognising the contributions of NHS and emergency personnel. The flag raising event adds a visible and public symbol of this commitment, reinforcing community cohesion and respect for these vital workers.