A service and wreath-laying ceremony were held in South Shields on Saturday, September 3 – Merchant Navy Day – in recognition of South Tyneside’s proud maritime heritage and history.
Held at the Mission to Seafarers cha pel and Merchant Navy memorial at Mill Dam, the events paid tribute to the ‘often forgotten and invisible, but very hard-working’ seafarers who have played a huge part in South Tyneside life.
Over the years, there have been thousands of seafarers to call the borough home, while many more have been welcomed to the area as their ships visited the River Tyne.
For more information about Merchant Navy Day and how you can play a part, visit the Seafarers’ Charity online here.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the pictures from our photographer Kevin Brady, taken at Saturday’s event.
5. Commemorate
South Tyneside has a proud maritime history - and the borough was well represented at Saturday's event. Photo: Kevin Brady
6. 'This town never forgets'
More than 3,000 seafarers left South Tyneside during the First and Second World Wars, never to return. Photo: Kevin Brady
7. Taking part
Young Sea Cadets doing their bit at the Merchant Navy Day service on Saturday. Photo: Kevin Brady
8. Reflection
The wreath-laying took place at the Merchant Navy memorial, Mill Dam. Photo: Kevin Brady