The Red Ensign, the Merchant Navy's official flag, was raised at the Port of Larne on Wednesday, 3rd September by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr. Jackson Minford, assisted by Harbour Master Tom McKay.

Prior to the flag-raising ceremony, messages were read from the Duke of Edinburgh and the Admiral The Right Honourable The Lord West of Spithead GCB, DSC, PC.

The annual event supports a nationwide call from the Seafarers UK charity and the Merchant Navy Association for the UK Merchant Navy’s official flag to be flown on public buildings and landmark flagpoles.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr. Minford, said:

“Each year Merchant Navy Day provides a chance to reflect on and honour the great work which has been carried out tirelessly by the men and women of the Merchant Navy. Our everyday lives are dependent on the work of the merchant marine, transporting food and products and generally keeping the country moving. In our Borough the arrival or departure of a ferry has been heralded by haulage lorries on the road to and from the port, a very visible reminder of the service provided by the shipping across the North Channel.”

“By flying the Merchant Navy Day flag we are showing our support and appreciation to the men and women who work tirelessly on our behalf to keep the country moving, and we are very proud to do so”.

Included among those taking part in the ceremony at Larne Harbour was Mrs. Jackie Stewart, Deputy Lieutenant for County Antrim and Commander Tom Wardley, senior Royal Naval officer in Northern Ireland as well as members of Larne RNLI. Sam Cowan represented SCFS as our Port Chaplain for Belfast and Larne.