A DAY of remembrance could be established for a Harwich hero in a bid to mark his courageous acts during the First World War.

Captain Charles Fryatt was executed on July 27 1916 after being found guilty of attempting to ram a German U-boat.

On at least three prior occasions he steered his passenger ship to safety avoiding capture from the enemy during crossings between Harwich and the Hook of Holland.

Now the Harwich Society has called for ‘Fryatt Day’ to be recognised locally on the anniversary of his death.

Each year on July 27 the society will fly its flags at half-mast.

Colin Farnell, chairman of the Harwich Society, said: “The suggestion to mark the anniversary of his execution as Fryatt Day in Harwich will allow annual recognition of an incredibly brave man.”