Residents are invited to attend a flag raising ceremony to mark Merchant Navy Day on 3 September.

The ceremony will commemorate all those who work at sea, both past and present, and will take place outside Oakham Castle from 10.15am.

Merchant Navy Day is marked each year throughout the UK and commemorates the beginning of the Second World War in 1939 when the first UK merchant ship, "SS Athenia", was torpedoed and sunk by Germany with a loss of over 120 passengers and crew.

Merchant Navy Day raises public awareness of the country's ongoing dependence on merchant seafarers.



The ceremony will commemorate all those who work at sea (Rutland County Council).

Rutland's Armed Forces Champion, Cllr David Wilby, said: "It is important that we recognise and celebrate the Merchant Navy community, past and present and acknowledge the UK's ongoing dependence on merchant seafarers, who are responsible for shipping over 95% of the UK's trade.

"By flying the flag we give our thanks and support to the seamen and women whose dedication and sacrifice should not be forgotten. We hope to see residents join us at the short ceremony."