Latvians celebrate country’s independence day
LATVIAN Independence Day has been marked in Guernsey with the annual flag-raising at the Weighbridge Roundabout.
More than 20 people gathered at the Weighbridge roundabout on the eve of the country's national day to celebrate the event and the strength of the local Latvian community.
They sang the national anthem while Dainis Nadzins raised the flag.
‘It means we can remember where we come from. We always try to organise raising the flag for Latvian people to feel a sense of celebration when we’re far from the homeland,’ said Mr Nadzins.
Wednesday also saw Evita Bormane become the first Latvian national to be elected to public office, as a St Peter Port douzenier.
The Republic of Latvia was granted independence in 1918 after centuries of being ruled by Sweden, Poland and Russia.
Lilita Kruze, who is the honorary consul of the Republic of Latvia in Guernsey, said: ‘In the history of its existence, Latvia has experienced both difficult and happy times, being occupied on multiple occasions and regaining its full independence in 1991.
'Today, Latvia is internationally recognised and has integrated itself into international proceedings and participates in them fully.
‘We are extremely grateful to Lt Tony Browning, commanding officer of the Guernsey Sea Cadets who, since 2005, has contributed to a celebration in style by hoisting our national flag at the Weighbridge Roundabout.’
