Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day, provides an opportunity for the country to show its appreciation for those who work and volunteer in the NHS, Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance and other rescue services. It aims to promote emergency services charities and to highlight the many different career and volunteer roles in the emergency services.

Representatives from the Police, Fire Service, Scottish Ambulance Service and the NHS were at the ceremony on Wednesday 19 October. Emergency Services Day usually takes place on 9 September each year, but this year, following the passing of Her Majesty The Queen on 8 September, the date for this year was rescheduled.

Helping to raise the flag outside the council headquarters, Depute Provost Bob Burgess said: “The emergency services are there for us at the most trying of times and play a vital role in helping keep our communities safe.

“They are an inspiration, and we owe a huge thank-you to our doctors, nurses, firefighters, paramedics, police officers, volunteers and everyone who helps care for and protect others.

“Today is an opportunity to remember the vital contribution which our emergency services and volunteers make to our communities.”