Flying the Flag for Emergency Services

Emergency service workers will be celebrated in South Tyneside this week as part of National Emergency Services Day.

The 999 Day flag will be flown at South Shields Town Hall on Wednesday 9 September to recognise the important work of the men and women who keep our emergency services running.

Leader of South Tyneside Council, Councillor Iain Malcolm, said: "From 999 call operators to paramedics, doctors and nurses to police, fire service personnel, the coastguard and much more - they all help people through their crises and their worst days.

"For many of these hero workers, this is their vocation and full-time role. Others, such as members of the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade, who this council honoured in 2017 with the Freedom of the Borough, are volunteers who are prepared to selflessly jump into action when an emergency takes place.

"Volunteers are a key part of the emergency services group and they play an extremely important role in keeping Britain safe.

"This last year, with the Coronavirus pandemic, we have relied more than ever on our emergency services workers and volunteers and so it is especially important that we take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate them."

#999Day raises the awareness of the work of the emergency services, promotes using the emergency services responsibly, educates the public about basic lifesaving skills, and promotes the many career and volunteering opportunities available.

For more information about Emergency Services Day (999 Day) visit www.999day.org.uk