Thousands turn out for flag-raising at the O2

PersoNS DECKED out in the national colours of black, green and gold, came out in their thousands to witness the national flag being raised inside 'Jamaica House' at the O2 complex in north Greenwich on Monday.

The event commemorating Jamaica's 50th year of Independence also attracted a throng of celebrities, dignitaries and friends of the Caribbean island.

Jamaica's Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Anthony Hylton and Henry Bellingham, Foreign and Commonwealth Office minister for Africa, the United Nations and overseas territories, were both in attendance.

Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, Jamaica's high commissioner handed over the flag to members of the Jamaica Defence Force who then erected the flag. Assamba said Jamaica has clearly "made its mark on the world."

She added: "We have a lot to be proud of and have a lot to celebrate. We will continue to be a leader in every sphere of life in this world."

Excitement grew as the flag reached the top of pole - cheers were thunderous and mini Jamaican flags were frantically waved among the audience.

Reading an Independence Day message on behalf of Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, Hylton said: "Every Jamaican must find a flag in our hearts and wave it."

The flag-raising was conducted by members of the Jamaica Defence Force and prayers were offered by Bishop John Francis, of Rauch Ministries. This was followed by children of the Jamaica-UK diaspora saying the National Pledge, and the colourful entertainment package included poetry by actress Dona Croll, musical selections from Chevelle Franklyn and dance performances from students of the University of West Indies.