WORCESTER will pay tribute to its Merchant Navy war veterans this weekend with the first day of remembrance for the former seamen.

Merchant Navy Day will be celebrated around Britain by Second World War veterans, who fought for their country.

The Government agreed earlier this year that an official day in honour of the seamen should take place.

It was decided that Sunday, September 3, would be set aside for the veterans. The day has poignant memories because it was the day in 1939, that Britain declared war on Nazi Germany.

"This day means a great deal to us," said Dick Valentine, of Claines Royal British Legion.

"The Government listened to the Merchant Navy Association and what we wanted. We have now been granted this official day.

"The Merchant Navy lost more men percentage-wise than all the other Forces put together during the Second World War.

"September 3 is a great tribute to the men. It is a mark of respect and recognition."

Mr Valentine says he hopes Worcestershire County Council will fly the Merchant Navy's Red Duster flag on Sunday.

"We're contacting all the councils around the country in the hope that they will recognise the day. There will be celebrations taking place up and down the country."

Mr Valentine is also campaigning for a Merchant Navy Memorial within St Paul's Cathedral, in Valetta, Malta.

The association wants a memorial to pay tribute to the soldiers who took part in the Malta Convoys during the Second World War.

It has been fund-raising for the memorial, which will cost £6,000. So far £4,000 has been raised.

"We're nearly there now," said Mr Valentine. "It would mean so much to us to have this lasting memorial. We have planned the design and wording of it. We just need a bit more cash now."