Watford and Garston residents may have noticed a new splash of patriotism on their daily walks, as flags have been attached to lampposts and bold red crosses painted on roundabouts.
Residents posted photos and videos of the flags on social media after they unexpectedly appeared on lampposts on York Way towards the end of last month.
The project has spread across the country, with many arguing that it aims to bring back national pride. Union Jack and St George flags have been displayed on lampposts, bridges and from windows, while St George’s crosses have even been painted on local zebra crossings.
However, HOPE Not Hate has reported that Operation Raise the Colours, one group participating in the project, is linked to far-right activists. There are also fears that the displays could create division.
A spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council said: “We regularly fly the Union flag and the flag of St George outside our offices, and we recognise their importance as symbols of national pride. We also support the right of individuals and organisations to fly these flags on their own property.
“However, to ensure public safety, we have a policy of not allowing any items to be attached to lampposts and other street fixtures we are responsible for without any permission.
“If our highways team become aware of unapproved items, then they will remove them when they are next in the area.”
A National Highways spokesperson said: “Safety is our priority and we do all we can to protect those who use our roads.
“Items such as flags attached to a bridge could pose a danger to motorists on the road below and so may need to be removed for safety reasons.”
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