Merchant Navy to be honoured during ceremony

The Red Ensign will fly over the Town Hall in Kirkwall as Orkney Islands Council joins UK-wide events in recognition of the nation’s merchant seafarers today, Merchant Navy Day.

This year’s celebrations will have particular resonance as 2018 marks 100 years since the end of World War One in which the merchant fleet had such a significant role.

Two wreaths will be laid at Kirkwall & St Ola War Memorial outside St Magnus Cathedral between 10.45am and 11am, by Lord Lieutenant Bill Spence and Council Convener Harvey Johnston.