A special flag was raised to pay tribute to merchant seafarers past and present.
The flag was raised to mark Merchant Navy Day – an annual opportunity to remember the courage, sacrifice and vital contribution seafarers make to communities.
Annual event
The event on 3 September, paid tribute to seafarers who work in challenging and often dangerous conditions, spending long periods away from their families to help keep goods and essential supplies moving around the world.
Following the hoisting of the flag Councillor John Greenwell, Champion for Armed Forces and Veterans and Equalities, led a short tribute highlighting the indispensable role of merchant seafarers.
Councillor John Greenwell
“Today we pause to honour the extraordinary people who work the world’s oceans. Seafarers past and present face difficult and often dangerous conditions, spending long periods away from their families to keep our country supplied and connected.
“We must never forget the thousands who made the ultimate sacrifice during the World Wars. To all seafarers, past and present – thank you. Your hard work binds the world together.”
Second World War
Merchant Navy Day was established in 2000 by HM Government and is on 3rd September each year, the anniversary of the start of the Second World War. Merchant seafarers kept vital supply lines open during the Second World War.