Brightlingsea will be marking Merchant Navy Day with a service on the town hard at noon on August 31.

It’s a day to commemorate the service and sacrifices of merchant seafarers and is marked by the tradition of flying the Red Ensign flag. The day also serves to raise awareness about the crucial role of the Merchant Navy in maintaining the UK’s supply chains and economy.

Merchant Navy Day is observed on September 3rd – Brightlingsea’s ceremony is on the closest Sunday – the anniversary of the sinking of the first British merchant ship, SS Athenia, at the beginning of World War II in 1939.

The Seafarers’ Charity runs a campaign encouraging individuals and organisations to fly the Red Ensign on the day.