City flies the flag in memory of our greatest naval victory
Sunderland is flying the flag to commemorate Britain’s greatest naval victory 211 years ago today.
It was on October 21, 1805, that the Royal Navy – commanded by Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson – defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Twenty-seven British ships defeated an enemy fleet of 33 off the southwest coast of Spain.
The Franco-Spanish fleet lost 22 ships, while the British did not suffer a single loss.
It was the most decisive naval battle of the Napoleonic War and ended any hope the French had of invading Britain.
Annual civic commemorations of Trafalgar Day take place across the country and at naval bases worldwide.
The Red Ensign will be raised outside Sunderland Civic Centre today as part of the commemorative events and celebrations.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Coun Alan Emerson, has been invited to represent the people of Sunderland at the region’s Trafalgar Day event held at the Collingwood Monument in Tynemouth.
“Our city has played a huge part in our country’s maritime and naval heritage, and flying the flag on Trafalgar Day at the civic centre helps symbolise that close relationship with the Royal Navy and all our armed forces,” he said.
“I hope seeing the flag will encourage people to reflect on the massively important part the battle had on our nation’s history, and the sacrifices made by all those who have served this country over the centuries from our city and local communities.”