THE Red Ensign flag is flying above Clacton Town Hall to mark Merchant Navy Day this Sunday.
Tendring Council chairman Mark Platt paid tribute to the Merchant Navy as part of a national campaign to raise awareness of the UK's ongoing dependence on seafarers.
Before raising the Red Ensign, Mr Platt read a message from Seafarers UK president the Earl of Wessex, saying: “On this Merchant Navy Day, I very much hope that you will support this campaign by Seafarers UK to remember the sacrifices, salute the courage and support the future of the often unsung personnel of our Merchant Navy.
“Too often they are the forgotten or invisible service, by raising the Red Ensign you will ensure that at least on this day they are remembered. Your act will mean so much to their families and to the retired, but most especially to those at sea.”
The UK relies on Merchant Navy seafarers for 95 per cent of all imports, including half the food eaten in the country.
The Red Ensign – or "Red Duster" as it is affectionately known – has been the flag of the British Merchant Navy since 1854.
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