HISTORIC sites across Harwich will fly their flags at half mast for the first ever memorial day for a town war hero.

Captain Charles Fryatt became famous for his quick-thinking and brave actions during the first world war.

The Harwich resident forced a U-boat to crash dive to save those on board his passengers ship.

But in June 1916 his ship, the SS Brussels, was surrounded by four or five German destroyers, boarded and taken back to Belgium.

He was executed by firing squad.

Now, in the build up to the 99th anniversary of his death, Harwich Town Council has unanimously agreed to fly the flag above Harwich’s Guildhall at half mast to honour Capt Fryatt.

The Harwich Society will fly flags at half mast at its visitor attractions across the town on Monday July 27 to recognise the town's first Fryatt Day.

The Harwich Society and the council are urging other organisations in the town to support the event and honour the sacrifice made by Captain Fryatt.