Merchant Navy Day 01

Council celebrates Merchant Navy Day

East Ayrshire Council hoisted the Red Ensign, or ‘Red Duster’, to mark Merchant Navy Day and raise awareness of the UK’s ongoing dependence on Merchant Navy seafarers.

The Council was supporting a nationwide call from the Seafarers UK charity for the UK Merchant Navy’s official flag to be flown on public buildings and landmark flagstaffs.

Depute Provost John McGhee said: “Throughout times of peace and war, our Merchant Navy seafarers have played a key role in keeping our nation supplied and connected. And today, modern-day merchant seafarers continue to handle the majority of the UK's imports, working away quietly and tirelessly to deliver the goods that sustain our daily lives and our economy.

“It is therefore important that we recognise their work, and I was pleased to be able to raise the Red Ensign in their honour.”

For further information, visit www.merchantnavyfund.org

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