03/09/2026
⚓ MERCHANT NAVY DAY 2026 ⚓
A message from the Mayor of Southend-on-Sea City Council
“Today, Thursday 3 September, we mark Merchant Navy Day and pay tribute to the generations of men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in our Merchant Navy.
As an island nation, we owe an enormous debt of gratitude to our merchant seafarers. Throughout our history they have kept vital supply lines open in times of conflict, often at tremendous personal cost, and today they continue to play an essential role in keeping our country supplied and connected with the rest of the world.
To mark the occasion, the Red Ensign – the flag of the UK Merchant Navy – will be proudly flown at Porters Civic House today.
The Deputy Mayor of Southend-on-Sea will also join members of Leigh-on-Sea Town Council and the local community at Strand Wharf, Leigh-on-Sea from 10.45am, where the Red Ensign will be raised during a ceremony marking Merchant Navy Day.
As President of The Seafarers’ Charity, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has encouraged communities across the country to fly the Red Ensign today and recognise the tireless work of our seafarers and their families.
On behalf of the City of Southend-on-Sea, I offer my thanks and appreciation to all those who have served, and those who continue to serve, in our Merchant Navy.
We will remember their sacrifice, recognise their service and proudly Fly the Red Ensign.”
