Civic tribute to our emergency services

At 9am, on the ninth day of the ninth month (999) the Emergency Services flag was raised above public buildings across the country, honouring all those who have served.

This is the fourth year the commemoration - launched by the charity National Emergency Services Memorial - has taken place to raise public awareness of the work and sacrifice of all those involved.

The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Henry Trueman, said: "More than two million people are part of our emergency services across the country, and many of those are volunteers.

"These are services we all hope we won't need to use, but they are vital for keeping us safe, and protecting us from danger.

"Sunderland City Council is proud to support national Emergency Services Day on Thursday 9 September. I hope people will see the flag raised at the civic centre and other public buildings and be encouraged to pay their own personal tributes."

Founder and Chair of Emergency Services Day, Tom Scholes-Fogg said: "I am delighted that Sunderland Council are supporting 999 Day and the heroes who serve. 999 Day is that one day a year when the nation pauses and reflects on the service and sacrifices of the two million people who work and volunteer across the NHS and emergency services.

"We all take the NHS and emergency services for granted. When we need them, they are there. When we have nowhere else to turn, they are there. When we are in danger, they are there. If you see a member of the 999 family, please, stop them and thank them for always being there for us."