Dorset | Posted on August 29th, 2025 | return to news

Dorset to mark Merchant Navy Day

A flag raising ceremony will be held at the Memorial outside County Hall in Dorchester on Wednesday 3 September.

Wednesday 3 September is Merchant Navy Day and to mark this, a Flag Raising Ceremony is to be held at 9.30am at the Memorial outside County Hall in Dorchester.

The event will be led by the Rev John Yarrien, superintendent minister of the Dorset South and West Methodist Circuit, and will begin with a welcome address from Cllr Stella Jones, chairperson of Dorset Council.

In tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring service of the Merchant Navy — past, present, and future — the Red Ensign will be raised by Able Cadet Katie Sadler, HM Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet.

Speeches will be delivered by Deputy Lieutenant George Streatfeild and Captain David Parsons of the Merchant Navy Association (MNA). A wreath will be laid by Captain David Knight, branch chairman of the MNA.

The ceremony will be attended by members of the MNA, the Royal Naval Association from Dorchester, and Sea Cadets from Bournemouth and Weymouth. Dignitaries present will include the mayor and mayoress of Dorchester and the vice-chairperson of Dorset Council.

To honour the occasion, the Red Ensign will also be flown over County Hall throughout the day.

Members of the public are invited to attend.