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.

Mayor Cllr Bill Cook said: "Thurrock is proud to fly the Red Ensign Flag and celebrate Merchant Navy Day. This is a national event where we remember the sacrifices and courage of the Merchant Navy personnel."

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.

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.