Fifty-three countries came together yesterday to celebrate Commonwealth Day 2016 under the theme ‘An Inclusive Commonwealth’. Among the many activities and events taking place globally, a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey welcomed thousands of guests from around the world.

Commonwealth Day is held on the second Monday in March every year. It is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to promote shared Commonwealth values of peace, democracy and equality, and to celebrate the association’s rich diversity. Each year a theme is chosen for Commonwealth Day.

The theme helps to guide our activities and those of Commonwealth organisations throughout the year. Find out more about the 2016 theme: ‘An Inclusive Commonwealth’.

Yesterday I joined the Mayor of Sutton in Trinity Square to celebrate Commonwealth Day in Sutton and I would like to say thank you to him for inviting me, and to everyone I met there.