Merchant Navy Day - 3rd September 2015

3rd September 1939 marked the outbreak of the Second World War. Few are aware that it also marks the first major British maritime casualty. The merchant vessel SS Athenia was torpedoed just a few hours after hostilities were declared, with the loss of 128 passengers and crew.

The Red Ensign, or ‘Red Duster’ as it is affectionately known, has been recognised as the flag of the British Merchant Navy since 1854. The raising of this flag will be an occasion of pride in every community. The men, women of the United Kingdom’s Merchant Navy served our country heroically during two World Wars, some from Hyndburn. As an ‘island nation’ the UK still relies on Merchant Navy seafarers for 95% of our imports, including half the food we eat and 75% of our exports (by volume) are shipped from UK ports.

Hyndburn Borough Council will be holding a short ceremony on Thursday 3rd September 2015 at Accrington Town Hall at 10.00am to mark the contribution of the men and women who served.

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Tim O'Kane, said. "Recognition of the sacrifices the brave men and women of the Merchant Navy made is well overdue. If you know anyone who was in the Merchant Navy, and there are quite a few in Hyndburn, let us know and we will do our best to acknowledge them during the short service."

If any members of the Merchant Navy would like to attend this service then please contact Helen Gee on 01254 388111.