Wychavon District Council marks Merchant Navy Day

THE RED Ensign flag was also raised above the Civic Centre in Pershore as Wychavon marked Merchant Navy Day. Dignitaries gathered for the annual event which celebrates the contribution the Merchant Navy has made, and continues to make, to keep our country safe. Members of the Royal British Legion also attended. As well as playing a vital role keeping supply lines open during both world wars, around 24,000 merchant seafarers today handle more than 95 per cent of the goods traded by the UK. The flag was raised by Wychavon District Council Chairman, Coun Gregory Wilkins, who was joined by Tracy Stephens. She spent many years supporting merchant seafarers through her work with the Seafarers' Charity. There was also an Act of Remembrance in tribute to those merchant seafarers who have lost their lives during service.