BRAVE members of the Merchant Navy have been honoured in a memorial service. 

Remembering those who served and died during periods of conflict, the service was held in the Banqueting Hall at Barrow Town Hall on Thursday September 3. 

With veterans proudly displaying their medals, the service was taken by Reverend Andy Batchelor who recited prayers and readings to the service.

Organised by the deputy mayor of Barrow, Councillor Ann Thomson, the service takes place every year as a mark of respect to those who fought and died in the Second World War. 

Cllr Thomson, said: "It was a very nice service, very tasteful and I think everyone seemed to welcome it.

"It's very important to remember the Merchant Navy men because it means a lot to the people who served in the war."

The poem Heroes closed with the line: “So when you speak of heroes, remember those at sea, From Britain’s Merchant Navy, who died to keep us free.”

Prior to the service the Red Ensign Flag was raised at 10am as a sign of respect and to coincide with other organisations also taking part. 

The commemorative event was first instigated in 2000 to honour all those who served. 

More than 30,000 men of the British Merchant Navy were lost during the Second World War, beginning on September 3, 1939, a few hours after war had been declared. 

The first shipping casualty was the sinking of the Donaldson Line passenger ship, Athenia, and the loss of 112 passengers and crew.