In the town of Witney, a ceremony took place to recognise the important role played by the Merchant Navy in British maritime history.
The Red Ensign was hoisted on September 3 as part of Merchant Navy Day commemorations, an annual event that marks the loss of the SS Athenia – the initial British merchant vessel to be destroyed during the Second World War.
Those present at the gathering included Deputy Mayor Councillor Sandra Simpson, Councillor Rachel Crouch, and Steve Reynolds, who previously served with the Fleet Air Arm.
A statement from Witney Town Council posted on social media explained that the flag-raising ceremony provided an opportunity to commemorate individuals who perished at sea while acknowledging the service of Merchant Navy workers both historically and today.
The SS Athenia was sunk by torpedo attack in waters located to the west of Ireland.
The vessel had been travelling from Liverpool towards Canada when it was struck, resulting in 112 deaths.
Merchant Navy Day was formally established in the year 2000.
The observance also serves to highlight the continued efforts of contemporary seafarers who work within the industry.
The Merchant Navy is responsible for transporting approximately 95 per cent of the United Kingdom’s traded goods.