31st August 2011. Wootton Bassett marked the end of repatriations this evening with a moving sunset ceremony that saw the Union Flag lowered for the final time. Hundreds gathered in the High Street of the Wiltshire town for the ceremony which included prayers and a speech from the town's mayor. The Prime Minister said: 'My message to the people of Wootton Bassett is a really big, heartfelt thank you on behalf of the Government and the whole country.' Mr. Cameron said the town's residents 'have done our country proud with the respect and admiration and passion they have shown for our Armed Forces and those who have tragically fallen in battle in Afghanistan and elsewhere.. I was delighted when Her Majesty decided to rename Wootton Bassett as Royal Wootton Bassett. I think it is thoroughly deserved although it is not something the people of Wootton Bassett ever asked for.
