(Image: Supplied)
A North East city will pay tribute to the vital contribution of the Merchant Navy, honouring those who serve at sea.
Sunderland will mark Merchant Navy Day with a ceremony at City Hall on September 3.
The event will include the raising of the Red Ensign, the recognised flag of the Merchant Navy, as a public show of appreciation for the men and women who keep the UK supplied by sea.
Councillor Robert Hutchinson, Mayor of Sunderland, said: "As a city with a rich maritime history, Sunderland is proud to mark Merchant Navy Day and honour those who have served in the merchant fleet.
"Generations of Sunderland people have worked at sea, helping to keep vital goods moving around the world and supporting the nation's prosperity.
"Raising the Red Ensign is a fitting way to recognise their commitment and to ensure their contribution is remembered and celebrated."
The ceremony will begin at 10am and members of the public are invited to attend.
Attendees will first gather in the Council Chamber for a welcome message followed by speeches from the Mayor, the Deputy Lieutenant for Tyne and Wear Mr Paul Callaghan CBE, DL, FRSA, and Sunderland City Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Paul Donaghy.
At the close of the ceremony, the public will be invited to join the Mayor outside City Hall for the raising of the Red Ensign.
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Merchant Navy Day was first marked in 2000. The national 'Fly the Red Ensign' campaign was launched in 2015 to raise awareness of the Merchant Navy's significance and encourage communities across the country to show their support.
This will be the twelfth consecutive year Sunderland has raised the flag as part of the campaign.
Anyone wishing to attend the ceremony is asked to contact the Mayor’s office on mayor@sunderland.gov.uk or 07766 367 426 no later than Friday 28 August 2026 to confirm attendance.