Children from St Nicholas Primary School in Exeter mark Europe Day 2013

The County Council raised the European flag at County Hall today (9 May) to mark International Europe Day 2013.

Exactly 63 years ago, the French Foreign Minister, Robert Schuman, took the first steps in a speech that held out a hand of friendship to Germany, towards the creation of the European Economic Community, which developed to become the European Union.

Mr Schuman spoke of their two countries cooperating with each other to pool their economic resources, and to no longer be enemies.

What began with his speech 63 years ago, has formed the union today of 27 Member States.

Pupils from St Nicholas Catholic Primary School, Exeter joined the ceremony, alongside Chairman of the council, Jerry Brook, and members of Devon's European Movement Committee.