WREXHAM Council has shown its support for the Merchant Navy.

Yesterday (September 3), the council flew the Red Ensign flag to celebrate Merchant Navy Day, which honours the brave men and women who served during the two World Wars, as well as those who continue to serve to ensure we have supplies to keep our island nation afloat.

The Merchant Navy suffered the very first casualty of the Second World War when the S.S. Athenia, a merchant vessel, was torpedoed with the loss of 128 passengers and crew just hours after hostilities were declared.

Sadly, the losses from the sinking of the Athenia would not be the first, as hundreds of ships and thousands of seafarers would meet the same fate in the years to come.

A spokesperson for the council, said: "As an island nation, the UK relies on Merchant Navy seafarers for 95 per cent of our imports, including half the food we eat.

"The UK has the largest ports industry in Europe.

"75 per cent of our exports (by volume) are shipped from UK ports, some of which supported the campaign by encouraging visiting ships to sound their horns at 10am yesterday."

Cllr David Griffiths, Armed Forces champion, added: "Many of you have been or still are serving with the Merchant Navy.

"Your loyal service is a tribute to the service and the incredible contribution you make to the national economy.

"On September 3 every year, we pay our respects to them and I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has or is currently serving with the Merchant Navy.”