Following the success of the Yorkshire flag registration, the unfurling ceremony by the Lord Mayor of Kingston upon Hull and the walk from Hull to York, the Ceremonial Flag was installed in the Guildhall at York by the Lord Mayor of York, on Wednesday 7th January 2009.
The White Rose is displayed alongside the Union Flag, the flag of the City of York and the European Union Flag.
The event began with a civic procession which was led by the mace and sword bearers and included the Lord Mayor and theSheriff of York in full ceremonial robes. They were accompanied by their wives.
Following the reading of the Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity, by Judith Preston-Anderson, YRS President, the ceremonial flag was carried into the hall by Chris Sewell and was escorted by most of the Hull to York walkers.
In accepting the flag into the City’s care, The Lord Mayor of York referred tho the event as, 'An important day in the history of the City of York and the County of Yorkshire.' He went on to express his pride in the county and in being able to take part in the ceremony.
Roger Sewell, YRS Vice Chairman, said, ‘It is a great honour for the Yorkshire Ridings’ Society that the flag is being displayed in such an historic setting’. He then gave a brief account of the registration process, the benefits of registration and the walk to York. He thanked the City Council for their support of the society and Yorkshire Day.
Chris Abbott, YRS Chairman, presented the Sheriff with a copy of the Registration Certificate for the City of York. It is hoped that this will be displayed near the flag
The event was attended by, members and representatives of York City Council, members of the society and the walkers who carried the flag from Hull to York following the registration ceremony in July.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to the Mansion House for refreshments. The executive then held a meeting in the splendid dining room of the Mansion House
The Society extends sincere thanks to all who assisted in the flag registration process and ceremonies.