Sea cadets and members of Sevenoaks District Council marked Merchant Navy Day this morning with a short ceremony and flag raising.

Westerham Sea Cadets joined Councillor Simon Raikes, chairman of Sevenoaks council, to raise a Red Ensign above the council offices.

Merchant Navy Day takes place tomorrow.

The raising of the Merchant Navy's flag was also witnessed by Douglas Horner, deputy lieutenant of Kent.

Councillor Raikes said: "The Merchant Navy paid a heavy price during the last World War, not only ensuring the vital supplies of our war effort in our hour of need, but also in supplying our allies and our armed forces elsewhere in times of conflict.

"But for too long their contribution was not fully recognised.

"More recently the merchant navy played a pivotal role in the Falklands conflict.

"As an island and a trading nation, the merchant marine has been essential to our survival and prosperity."

This service was part of Seafarers UK's campaign for the Red Ensign to be flown on Saturday over public buildings and landmarks across the UK.