DAWLISH commemorated Merchant Navy Day on Sunday coinciding with the annual Armed Forces Bikers Bike and Trike event on the Lawn to raise money for the veterans.

As the events which are supported by Dawlish Town Council took place on the same day, it was a chance to include a short service and raising of the Merchant Navy Flag.

The commemoration was attended by the Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Rosie Dawson, town councillors Bob Graham, chairman of the Dawlish Branch of the Royal British Legion, and Rev Fiona Wimsett representing Churches Together in Dawlish and District along with members of the Dawlish Royal British Legion.

The Merchant Navy Flag, the Red Duster, was hoisted by Barry Cockram of the Merchant Navy to a General Salute bugle call by Alison Sweet of Torbay Brass Band.

A town council spokesman said: “Thank you to all who attended and to the Armed Force Bikers for holding such a great event.”

Merchant Navy Day became officially recognised in Great Britain in 2000.

The Merchant Navy suffered severe losses from German U-boat attacks during both world wars.