The iconic Red Ensign flag will be hoisted at Felixstowe's town hall to mark Merchant Navy Day tomorrow.

Councillors and former members of the Merchant Navy, known colloquially as the 'Grey Funnel Line' will raise the 'red duster' on Friday 3 September at 9:30am to raise public awareness of the UK's ongoing dependence on seafarers.

Fly the Red Ensign, run by the Seafarers' Charity, is an annual campaign to honour the sacrifices made by merchant seafarers in World War One, and World War Two and ever since.

Merchant Navy Day became an official day of remembrance on September 3 2000, after many years of campaigning for recognition.

Cllr Mark Jepson, Mayor of Felixstowe, said: "Felixstowe town council is proud to fly the red ensign to celebrate Merchant Navy Day, in recognition of the sacrifice and service of all merchant seafarers.

"As a seaside town, home to Britain's biggest and busiest container port, Felixstowe is proud to signify the service of those seafarers at our town hall."

The UK relies on Merchant Navy seafarers for more than 90% of imports.

The charity's president, HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, said: "On this Merchant Navy Day, I very much hope that you will support this campaign by the Seafarers' Charity to remember the sacrifices, salute the courage and support the future of the personnel of our Merchant Navy.

"Too often they are the forgotten or invisible service. By raising the red ensign you will ensure that at least on this day they are remembered."

For more information on the Seafarers' Charity, follow the link here.