Council marks 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.
Provost Claire Leitch said: “Our Merchant Navy has long been the lifeblood of our island nation, keeping supplies moving, supporting global trade and placing themselves in harm’s way to protect our freedoms in times of conflict. We owe them a great deal as they continue to shape and strengthen the resilience of our communities.
“It is therefore important that we recognise their vital work, and I was pleased to be able to raise the Red Ensign in their honour.”