Local dignitaries, residents, and military veterans honoured the seafarers who fought in both World Wars and beyond, at Maldon's Hythe Quay, last Sunday (September 3).

Donations were collected in aid of the Merchant Navy Fund after the ceremony, raising £167.12.

A Maldon Town Council spokesperson said: "The public were incredibly generous!"

Maldon has commemorated Merchant Navy Day since 2000. The annual event is a special remembrance of the brave men and women who kept our 'Island Nation' afloat during the First and Second World Wars.

Father Andrew Appiah, Priest in Charge at St Mary's Church, led the call to worship and following prayers. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Of the staggering 44,000 British seamen killed at sea during both World Wars, five lost in the Second World War hailed from Maldon. Four are remembered on the back of the town's war memorial outside All Saints Church.

They include Ernest Harry Akehurst; David Buck, a 17-year-old Cadet serving on board the British steam tanker 'SS San Gerardo' (London); Frederick William Simmons, part of the crew of the 'SS Lulworth Hill' (London); and Geoffrey Herbert Taber, an Able Seaman on 'SS Fort Mumford' (London). Bernard Thomas Mussett is commemorated on the Plume Academy school's Roll of Honour but not on the Town Memorial.

Councillor Andrew Lay, Mayor of Maldon, read Psalm 107:21-32. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Last Sunday, the ceremony followed a procession of local councillors, veterans, and the Town Mayor, Councillor Andrew Lay.

Cllr Lay told Nub News: "It is very important event for the town to remember the sacrifices made - and which continue to be made - by merchant navy personnel in conflicts around the world."

He added that Maldon's history surrounds the river and the vessels that have sailed on it over centuries.

Cllr Lay laid a Merchant Navy wreath on behalf of the people of Maldon. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Councillor Kevin Lagan, Chairman of Maldon District Council, said: "For a maritime town, I think the event is absolutely needed.

"The respect we owe for those who sometimes don't get the right level of exposure. I think it's right and proper that we pause to reflect and give thanks for all the sacrifices people have made.

The choir at St Mary's Church sang hymns and led The National Anthem. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Maldon shanty crew Salt, Water and Beer (SWaB) sang an original composition called 'The Red Duster Flag' during the ceremony. They also sang the Sailor's Farewell while Town Mayor Andrew Lay laid a Merchant Navy wreath.

Local shanty crew Salt, Water and Beer (SWaB) sang an original composition by member Brian. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

John Thistlethwaite, Founder of SWaB, told Nub News: "We've been doing this for quite a few years.

"It's quite a moving ceremony, and a worthy thing to be doing."

With thanks to Stephen Nunn.

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