The Red Ensign has been hoisted outside Clacton Town Hall today (Tuesday, 3 September) to mark Merchant Navy Day.

The Ensign, the flag of the Merchant Navy, was raised in a short ceremony at the Tendring District Council (TDC) offices as the authority marked the occasion.

It was followed by a reading by TDC Chairman Dan Casey, who is also President of Clacton Royal British Legion and the council’s Armed Forces Champion.

Councillor Casey said: “The flag-raising ceremony is our chance to publicly give our thanks to the Merchant Navy and all who serve in it.

“Our Merchant Navy has had an important role in our nation’s history with Merchant Navy personnel braving dangerous voyages to keep us fed, especially during the Second World War, and is still vital to the UK's economy and keeps us supplied with goods and food.”

A minute’s silence was also held as the flag was raised to remember those who had lost their lives in service for the Merchant Navy.