The flag was raised, along with 500 other flags across the country, to mark Commonwealth Day, as for the first time, local authorities and civic dignitaries, community groups and charities throughout the British Isles are taking part in local flag raising events and ceremonies of dedication.
Hampshire County Council Chairman, Councillor Ken Thornber read a specially written Commonwealth Affirmation, and a message from Her Majesty, The Queen was read by Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Dame Mary Fagan DCVO JP.
The flag was jointly raised by young and upcoming Hampshire sports stars, gymnasts Laura Edwards from Brockenhurst and Kelly Simm from Whiteley, Judo athlete Sam Potts from Locks Heath, and netball player Mia Ritchie from Lymington. The quartet have had backing from the County Council's Hampshire Talented Athlete Scheme which aims to help Hampshire's athletes reach world class podiums.
Speaking before the event, Councillor Thornber said: "Hampshire welcomes new citizens from the Commonwealth every year, and it is right therefore that we invite new Hampshire citizens whose countries of origin are in the Commonwealth, to join our ceremony in March and take part in this unique act of dedication.
"The event has caught the imagination of thousands of participants across the country. It is a wonderful opportunity for Hampshire to connect with others nationwide in the widespread public expression of commitment to the Commonwealth, appreciation of the values it stands for, and the opportunities offered to its citizens around the world."
Afterwards, Winchester MP Steve Brine added: "This was a fantastic occasion, and it was great to see so many people from across our area, of all ages, there to share in the experience. One highlight for me was the singing from the children of Western Primary School and Princes Mead School, which was magnificent, and a great start to the week."