IW pays tribute to emergency services at 999 Day flag raising event

The Isle of Wight has paid tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of emergency services personnel at a special flag raising event held this morning (Tuesday 9 September) outside County Hall, Newport.

Marking national Emergency Services Day — also known as 999 Day — the event brought together civic leaders, councillors, and representatives from the Island’s emergency services to honour the nearly two million people who serve across the NHS, police, fire, ambulance, and search and rescue services in the UK.

At precisely 9am, the 999 Day flag was raised by Andrew Woodford of the Isle of Wight Coastguard, followed by a two-minute silence to remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council, Councillor Ian Dore, led the ceremony and offered words of thanks and remembrance. He also shared a number of personal experiences, further highlighting the value and support offered to the emergency services.

He said: “Today we stand united in gratitude for the bravery and commitment of our emergency services. Their work often goes unseen, but it is never unappreciated. This flag is a symbol of our respect and our enduring thanks.

"Whether responding to a major incident or offering support in everyday emergencies, these men and women show unwavering courage and professionalism. They are the backbone of our communities — always ready, always willing, and always there when we need them most.

"It is right that we pause to reflect, to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and to thank those who continue to serve with such dedication. On behalf of the Isle of Wight Council and our residents, I offer heartfelt thanks to every member of the emergency services.”

The event was attended by a wide range of dignitaries and emergency service representatives, including Mrs Caroline Peel DL representing the Isle of Wight Lieutenancy, High Sheriff Jacqueline Gazzard, Chief Inspector Andy MacDonald of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Louise Walker from the Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Ambulance Service, Sean Harrison of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, and representatives from Cowes RNLI, WightSAR, and the SS Independent Lifeboat.

Also present were MP West representative Max Nicol, vice-chair of the council Councillor Vanessa Churchman, and Isle of Wight Council chief executive Wendy Perera.

Emergency Services Day is held annually to promote awareness and appreciation of the work carried out by emergency personnel and volunteers across the UK.