Flag raised for Emergency Services Day
The Emergency Services Day flag has today (Tuesday 9 September) been raised above Moray Council’s headquarters in Elgin, in honour of the life-saving work carried out by frontline responders.
Moray Council Leader Cllr Kathleen Robertson and Civic Leader Cllr John Cowe were joined by Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire; Lucy Mackenzie, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Moray and representatives from local emergency services.
The flag was raised by Corrine McCrory, Area Service Manager for Scottish Ambulance, with assistance from Chief Inspector Michael McKenzie from Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Group Commander Mark Witkowski and Graeme Gordon, Coastguard Station Officer at Burghead.
Emergency Services Day - also known as 999 Day - is held annually to celebrate the dedication, courage, and commitment of those working and volunteering in emergency response roles.
The day also promotes the responsible use of emergency services, raises awareness of first aid and life-saving skills and highlights opportunities to get involved through careers or volunteering.
Moray Council leader Cllr Kathleen Robertson said: “The emergency services have touched all of our lives in some way - whether directly, or through the support they have given friends, families or neighbours. Today is about showing them appreciation for the role they play across Moray. The emergency services have been a very visible presence across our communities this year in particular and I’d encourage everyone to take a moment to thank them today.”
Civic Leader Cllr John Cowe added: “2025 marks five years since the Covid-19 pandemic - and I think it’s important to acknowledge that today, as a recent example of the sacrifices made by our emergency workers, and the risks they take every day. We all owe them a debt of gratitude.”
Andrew Simpson, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire, said: “Emergency Services Day is not only a time to honour those on the frontlines, but also a chance to thank the families and support networks behind them. Their quiet strength often goes unseen, but is deeply appreciated. In Banffshire, where communities are shaped by both land and sea, we recognise the courage and commitment of those who respond - often as volunteers - when emergencies arise in some of the most challenging and unpredictable conditions.”
Lucy Mackenzie, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Moray, commented: “Today, we not only recognise the efforts of professional responders, but also the work of volunteers, whose dedication and courage saves lives every day. As a coastal community, we’re all aware of the selfless service of groups like the Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation and the RNLI; who give up their time and take enormous risks to keep our communities safe. Their courage is truly inspiring.”