COUNCIL chiefs marked Merchant Navy Day by raising the Red Ensign flag over the Civic Centre in Pershore.
The town’s commemoration joined those around the UK in remembering all of the Merchant Navy sailors from Great Britain’s proud naval past and also to show support for today’s seafarers.
District council chairman Coun Frances Smith gave a short reading of thanks from HRH The Earl of Wessex before John Lynch led the prayers ahead of the flag, the symbol of the British Merchant Navy, being raised.
Evesham Sea Cadets, members of the Royal British Legion and civic dignitaries were also in attendance.
Merchant Navy Day was established in 2000 and is held on September 3 every year, the anniversary of the start of the Second World War when the merchant ship SS Athenia was torpedoed and sunk, with the loss of 128 passengers and crew.
“We are pleased to fly the flag in honour of the brave merchant seafarers past and present who have sacrificed so much for our nation,” said Coun Smith.
“Merchant Navy Day is a time to show our appreciation for everything they have done, and continue to do, for us.”
