Deputy PFCC stands with Colchester City Council and partners to pay tribute on Merchant Navy Day

Rain and strong winds did not stop Deputy PFCC Jane Gardner from paying tribute to the men and women who work in the Merchant Navy.

Jane joined Colchester Mayoress Lyn Barton, Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council and other partners in honouring the flag of the Merchant Navy as it was raised on Colchester Town Hall today, which is Merchant Navy Day.

This annual awareness day highlights the indispensable role of merchant seafarers in the past, present and future.

They handle 95% of the UK’s traded goods today, with the seafarers’ bravery having kept supply lines open during global conflicts and crises like the world wars and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The flag of the Merchant Navy is affectionately known by seafarers as ‘The Red Duster’.

Jane Gardner, Deputy PFCC, added: “It was a very rainy and windy morning, but the weather was nothing compared to some of the conditions faced by the brave men and women who sail the seas to keep the UK and the world supplied with traded goods.”

This event was part of the PFCC engagement schedule which sees the PFCC engage across Essex communities, including hosting a public meeting in each of the 14 county districts.