Flags and wreaths salute Merchant Navy heroes

Wreath-laying ceremonies have been held in both of towns as part of the national Merchant Navy Association’s commemorations 80 years after the end of World War Two.

More than 40,000 British seamen died during the war as they battled to keep the country's supply lines open. Erewash Borough Council said it was important to honour their crucial role – as the authority marked Merchant Navy Day by hoisting the Red Ensign at Ilkeston and Long Eaton town halls on Wednesday 3rd September.

The Red Ensign, commonly known as "The Red Duster", flies on British merchant ships. The 10:45am ceremonies took place at the Cenotaph on Ilkeston Market Place and at Long Eaton’s War Memorial. Council leader James Dawson laid a wreath in Ilkeston. Deputy Mayor Cllr Greg Maskalick did the same in Long Eaton.

Residents were invited to join the commemorations. Cllr Dawson said: “Our thanks go to the local Royal British legion and the Sea Cadets for helping the borough to honour the heroic merchant seafarers who did so much to help win the war – many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice."