Sunderland will honour the Merchant Navy as the city commemorates Merchant Navy Day on Thursday 3 September.
The Mayor of Sunderland Councillor Robert Hutchinson will raise the Red Ensign, the recognised flag of the Merchant Navy, at City Hall at 10am and members of the public are invited to attend the annual ceremony.
Following a welcome in the Council Chamber, the Mayor will give a short speech about the importance of the Merchant Navy. Deputy Lieutenant for Tyne and Wear, Mr Paul Callaghan CBE, DL, FRSA and Sunderland City Council's Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Paul Donaghy, will also speak.
Members of the public are then invited to join the Mayor outside City Hall as he raises the Red Ensign in recognition of those serving in the Merchant Navy.
Merchant Navy Day was first marked in 2000. The national 'Fly the Red Ensign' campaign was launched in 2015 to raise awareness of the Merchant Navy's significance and encourage communities across the country to show their support.
Sunderland City Council is one of many local authorities taking part in the campaign. This year marks the twelfth consecutive year that the Red Ensign has been raised in the city to commemorate Merchant Navy Day.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Robert Hutchinson, said:
As a city with a rich maritime history, Sunderland is proud to mark Merchant Navy Day and honour those who have served in the merchant fleet.
"Generations of Sunderland people have worked at sea, helping to keep vital goods moving around the world and supporting the nation's prosperity. Raising the Red Ensign is a fitting way to recognise their commitment and to ensure their contribution is remembered and celebrated.
Anyone wishing to attend the ceremony should contact the mayorβs office on mayor@sunderland.gov.uk or telephone 07766 367 426 no later than Friday 28 August 2026 to confirm their attendance.
