People across the High Peak came together on Friday (2 September) to mark Merchant Navy Day.

High Peak Mayor, Padfield borough councillor Ollie Cross, led short ceremonies in both Glossop and Buxton and thanked those who came along to remember the sacrifices, salute the courage and support the personnel of our Merchant Navy past and present. 

At the midday ceremony at Glossop's Norfolk Square, Cllr Cross read out a few words from Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, which were: 

"This year's Merchant Navy Day is a poignant one. Essentially, tomorrow (Saturday) is the day we remember the forgotten or invisible service. The men and women responsible for carrying up to 95 per cent of our island nation's trade. Regrettably, it's only during times of war that the service enters our consciousness - whether that be the Second World War or the Falklands War 40 years ago. 

"It may be a civilian service but it ranks on the same level as the Armed Forces because of its critical role. In this Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee year, we also recognise her position as Master of the Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets as well as Patron of the Seafarers Charity - duties the Queen has undertaken for 70 remarkable years." 

He then raised the Red Ensign flag aloft. Among those present were High Peak Borough Council leader Cllr Anthony Mckeown, Hadfield South borough councillor Bob Mckeown, PCSO Brian Buller of Glossop Police Safer Neighbourhood Team, Old Glossop borough councillor Paul Hardy and Reverend Norman Shaw. 

A similar flag-raising ceremony was held in Buxton's Pavilion Gardens earlier in the morning. 

A campaign led by the Seafarers Charity, Merchant Navy Day is observed annually, when we honour the brave men and women of the Merchant Navy, including those who lost their lives at times of war, and celebrate the vital role of merchant seafarers in the lives of our communities.

Watch a video from the Glossop ceremony at the top of the page. 

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