Gibraltar to mark Red Ensign day

The Red Ensign flag will be flown from varies buildings on September 3 to mark the anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War.

The date also marks the first major British maritime casualty when merchant vessel SS Athenia was torpedoed just a few hours after hostilities were declared, with the loss of 128 passengers and crew.

The flag, also known as the Red Duster, will fly from the Governor’s residence ‘The Convent’, No 6 Convent Place, the Navy Tower, Commander British Force Gibraltar, Parliament House, City Hall, Gibraltar Port Authority and Gib Dock.

The public are also invited to fly the Red Ensign flag on that day in recognition of the men and women of the Merchant Navy.

The flag has been the recognised flag of the British Merchant Navy since 1854. This year major charities such as the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) and the Seafarers UK and the Gibraltar Port Welfare Committee will once again join together to commemorate the day.

The Earl of Wessex read out a message last year on the day that said: “To remember the sacrifices, salute the courage and support the future of the often unsung personnel of our Merchant.”