(left to right) are Ken Willis, John Austin MP, Roy McEwan and the Deputy Mayor (Cllr O'Hare)

Erith & Thamesmead MP, John Austin, attended the Merchant Navy Remembrance Service at St Paul's Church, Mill Road, Northumberland Heath, Erith on Saturday 10th November.   The Deputy Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Nick O'Hare, was also in attendance.  John Austin also joined the Mayor of Bexley and other Civic Figures at the formal Sunday Remembrance Service the following day at Christ Church Victoria.

John Austin said:  "Whilst it is important to commemorate the sacrifice made by members of the armed forces, not only in the two World wars but in subsequent and current conflicts, we should not lose sight of the vital contribution made by members of the Merchant Navy.  This was particularly evident in the conflict to liberate the Falkland Islands 20 years ago and in the 2nd World War the Merchant Navy's contribution was crucial to winning the war.

"They carried troops, supplies, fuel and ammunition and they suffered some of the highest casualty rates."

The Memorial Anchor was laid at the altar of St Paul’s, Northumberland Heath during the service and then taken by Ken Willis to be laid at the Merchant Navy War Memorial at Tower Hill.