GRAYS Town band provided appropriate music as Thurrock paid tribute to the Merchant Navy at an annual flag-raising outside the Town Hall on Wednesday, 2 September.

Rev Dr Sue Lucas opened the event with a short prayer. Cllr Bill Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, then gave a speech to honour the dedicated men and women of the Merchant Navy, past and present, before raising the flag.

He said: "Merchant Navy Day is an opportunity to pay a tribute to the brave men and women whose courage and sacrifice have played such a vital role in our nation's history.

"The flag raising serves as a reminder, not only of the sacrifices of the past, but also to recognise the dedication of those serving in the Merchant Navy today. Much of what we rely on in our daily lives, from food to fuel, arrives through the hard work of seafarers around the world."

The council's deputy leader, Cllr Alan Benson, also gave a speech, paying a tribute to the hard work and sacrifice given by those who serve.

He said: "Merchant Navy personnel have served with unwavering commitment to keep the country running, including during both World Wars.

Since its inception, Merchant Navy Day has grown into a significant national event. The Red Ensign, known affectionately as the 'Red Duster,' is flown at historic properties, political establishments, parish and town council offices, and village greens across the UK.

This powerful symbol serves to highlight the indispensable role of merchant seafarers - past, present, and future.

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Merchant Navy seafarers' bravery kept supply lines open during global conflicts including the world wars, as well as crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

Today, merchant seafarers are indispensable, handling 95% of the UK's traded goods, yet continue to face stern challenges such as the ongoing situation in the Strait of Hormuz.