MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands prepare to celebrate 250 years since the Union Jack was first raised

On January 23, 1765 Commodore John Byron raised the Union flag at Port Egmont on Saunders Island

The Falkland Islands are preparing to celebrate in 2015 is the two hundred and fiftieth year since Britain took possession of the Islands, when on January 23, 1765 Commodore John Byron raised the Union flag at Port Egmont on Saunders Island.

 The raising of the flag on that day cemented the Falklands as a part of the Commonwealth and the first British population of the Islands was settled.

250 years later the Falklands community has built their own identity but they wish to remain British is still strong, as outlined by the 2013 referendum.

“This landmark anniversary for the Falklands is a date to be proudly rejoiced, and preparations are underway to celebrate this significant date through events that engage the community” points out the Falklands' government.

“With some great support we hope everyone will celebrate in true Falklands style with a daylong event planned on Saturday, January 31 at Stanley Racecourse, ending in an open air music concert”.

Starting with the first recorded sighting of the islands 423 years ago by the English ship Desire, an outline of the Falklands history can be found in the ‘Our Islands, Our History’ publication.

Copies are available from the PR and Media Office and online in English, Portuguese and Spanish: http://www.falklands.gov.fk/category/literature%3chttp:/www.falklands.gov.fk/category/literature/