South Ayrshire Council has highlighted the importance of Commonwealth Day at a special flag raising ceremony at St Germain-en-Laye Gardens in Ayr today (13 March).
Commonwealth Day is held annually and is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to promote peace, democracy and equality.
The theme for 2017 is 'A Peace-building Commonwealth' which promotes understanding and acceptance in an increasingly multi-cultural world.
To mark Commonwealth Day, hundreds of flags will be flown across the country and beyond signifying unity and tolerance.
South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie said:" The Commonwealth principle of equality for all is as significant today as it has always been. Everybody has the right to be treated fairly no matter their race, age, gender or beliefs and the flag is a clear message that we embrace this principle.
"In South Ayrshire, diversity and equality is alive and well and at the heart of our society but we can always do more, so today is an opportunity for us all to think about the different ways we can be more accepting of others."