Maldon Town Council invites the community to join in a special commemoration of Merchant Navy Day on Sunday, 1 September from 11am, at Hythe Quay.

Maldon will once again pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Merchant Navy who have served and continue to serve our nation.

This annual event has become a local tradition, honouring those who served during both World Wars and beyond.

As a historic maritime town with the River Blackwater at its heart, Maldon is a fitting location for this commemoration.

The ceremony will begin with a procession featuring war veterans, Town Councillors, local dignitaries, and the Maldon Sea Cadets, accompanied by the sound of pipes from Piper Jo.

The Salt Water & Beer Shanty Singers will open the service with their song The Red Duster Flag, before handing over to Father Appiah from St Mary's Church to lead the service.

The Homage will be read by a local Sea Cadet and the Last Post will be played by Legacy Brass before a minutes' silence is marked with a cannon.

The silence will be followed by a reading by local veteran Eric Dyer of the Kohima, a verse which is carved onto numerous veteran memorials and monuments across the world and recognises the ultimate sacrifice made by soldiers.

The Reveille will be played before Cllr Andrew Lay, Maldon Town Mayor, lays a wreath in memory of Merchant Navy personnel.

The poignant Sailor's Farewell will be sung, then all will be welcomed to join the National anthem with St Mary's and All Saints Church Choirs, before an offer of blessing to close the service.

The Red Ensign flag will be flown from a Maldon Barge on Hythe Quay, and the Moot Hall on the High Street.

This event is being held in aid of the Merchant Navy fund, and the Sea Cadets will be on hand with buckets to collect donations.

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to St Mary's Church on Church Road.