Fresh calls to remove torn and dishevelled Union Jacks and England flags from lampposts in Peterborough
Fresh calls have been made to remove torn and dishevelled flags from across Peterborough.
For well over a year, a number of Union Jacks and England flags have been hung from a number of lampposts in the city.
Over time, these have become worse for wear with many looking torn.
In January, city councillor, military veteran and former mayor John Fox called for council officers to “locate and remove these unauthorised and dishevelled flags that exhibit disregard for their true meaning, as a mark of respect for all those who have served and continue to serve our country.”
When the issue was raised, council Leader Shabina Qayyum outlined the council’s current policy on unauthorised flags; stating that the council’s general policy would not be to remove any flags unless there was a clear health and safety risk to the public but swift action would be taken to remove them ‘where flags are significantly damaged or worn, or where it’s thought they may fall.’
Six months on, many of these flags appear to still be flying and Cllr Fox has called for the council to again look at the issue.
He said: “These were put up by people saying they were being patriotic but you don’t treat the national flag that way. That’s totally disrespectful for everything the flag stands for.
"We were told that they were going to be taken down but they haven’t. They have managed it in other areas of the country.
“Do we want visitors from abroad to see our national flag is such a disgraceful state. What message does that send?
"If the people find the money to put them up, they should find the money to replace them. You do not do things like that to the national flag, it is a thing of pride.
"The way they are at the minute, they are a disgrace and should be taken down.”
More flags are set to adorn the city’s streets from Tuesday (June 23) onwards as the council installs bunting to show their support for England at the World Cup.
The trees and Town Hall, on Bridge Street, will be also be lit in red and white for each evening of the tournament.