Surrey County Council has removed more than 1,000 St George’s and Union flags citing lack of official approval.
According to municipal records, 1,003 flags—installed across the county as part of the “Raise the Colours” movement—have been taken down to down, with an estimated 308 still in place.
The campaign, launched last summer to encourage public displays of patriotism, saw thousands of national flags attached to lampposts and other street furniture. While the council acknowledged that flags are “symbols of national pride” and continues to fly the Union flag at its headquarters in Reigate, it insists that any public display must be legally authorised.
A statement asserted that flags “can pose a risk to both drivers and pedestrians.”
Residents have also expressed pride in the flags, insisting there is no ulterior motive beyond patriotism and stressing their right and desire to show love for their country.
One supporter was quoted as saying
Waving the flag is about celebrating all things British, local, and full of heart.
Similar tensions surfaced last year in Birmingham, where residents defied city officials by flying the St George’s Cross after authorities ordered its removal, also citing safety concerns. The practice, led by Operation Raise the Colours, spread to other neighbourhoods, with locals displaying the English flag from homes and public spaces despite the council’s warnings.
Supporters say they are tired of being branded “racist” for showing pride in their country—at a time when taxpayers fund asylum hotels and pensioner benefits are cut.
