THE RED ensign will be raised over a North-East city to mark Merchant Navy Day.

Sunderland City Council is supporting the event organised by national charity Seafarers UK, to raise public awareness of the Merchant Navy’s important contribution to the life of the ‘island nation’ of Great Britain.

Sunderland’s long and rich maritime history makes it a particularly significant occasion for the city.

Sunderland Mayor Councillor Doris MacKnight will raise the Red Ensign on the civic centre flag pole at 10am on Friday September 1.

She will be accompanied by Deputy Lieutenant for Tyne and Wear, Colonel Varn Jassal, and Captain Stephen Healy of Newcastle’s Trinity House.

Cllr MacKnight said: “I am proud to represent the people of our city at this event, and honoured to raise the famous Red Ensign on their behalf.

“Sunderland is a city by the sea with a rich maritime heritage, and home to a community that recognises and appreciates the contribution made by the Merchant Navy to all our lives.”

I am proud to represent the people of our city at this event, and honoured to raise the famous Red Ensign on their behalf.”