THE contribution to the nation in war and peace of the men and women of the Merchant Navy was honoured in a public ceremony.

The service’s symbol, the Red Ensign flag, was raised in the centre of Caldicot to mark Merchant Navy Day.

Members of the Newport branch of the Merchant Navy Association joined local people and both sea and air cadets to publicly acknowledge the service to the country.

Deputy mayor of Caldicot, Cllr Jeff Williams said the Merchant Navy was often the “forgotten service” but it played an essential role.

He said: “We are an island and in wartime the Merchant Navy undertook perilous journeys to keep us supplied with food.

“In peacetime too, the sea can be a very hazardous place.

He said he had a family link to the Merchant Navy and its dangers.

He said his grandmother’s older brother was a merchant seaman who was lost in the early stages of the First World War.

He said: “We give thanks for all that the Merchant Navy has done for us.”

Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Gwent, Mr Edward Watts, read a message from HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex.

The Methodist min ister of Caldicot, Rev Preben Andersen led prayers and the Ensign was raised by Mr Dave Lewis of the Merchant Navy Association.