The Red Ensign will be flying at Liverpool Parish Church on Sunday 2 September to mark this year’s Merchant Navy Day.
Since 2000, charity Seafarers UK has been campaigning for public buildings across the UK to fly the ensign as a mark of respect for the 36,000 merchant seafarers who died in the Second World War as well as an acknowledgement of our continued dependence on their services.
As well as the so-called Sailors’ Church, the ensign will also be flown at the Town Hall. An Act of Remembrance will also be held at the Merchant Navy Memorial on the Pier Head.
Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Christine Banks said; “I am honoured to represent Liverpool as we remember the sacrifices made by seafarers who fought for our freedom. Liverpool played a huge role in the Battle of the Atlantic during the Second World War, and sadly many thousands of sailors lost their lives. It is incredibly important that we never forget the sacrifices these men made, the event is an important time for reflection for us all.”
The service will start at noon followed by a march to the Pier Head where a wreath will be laid at 1pm.
