Council flies the flag for England

Staff and Councillors at South Norfolk Council have joined the rest of the nation and raised the flag of St George outside their headquarters in Long Stratton.

It was proud England fan Councillor Martin Wilby, representing Dickleburgh ward, who spotted the empty flag-pole outside the offices and decided to do something about it.

"Everywhere you look, people are flying the flag of St George. It's wonderful, and they deserve praise for shrugging aside the cynics and getting behind the England team in the World Cup.

"I wanted the Council to be part of that, and this is our statement of support for the team. Supporting England brings the country together because it crosses all boundaries and communities.

"It's a positive thing and we are proud to be part of it."

The flag, which will be flown during office hours on weekdays, went up today to celebrate the qualification of the England team to the tournament's knock-out stages after topping their group.

And on Sunday, towns and villages in South Norfolk, along with the rest of the county and the country, will be deserted as England meet Ecuador.

Cllr Wilby said:

"It will be nerve-wracking - watching England always is - but no matter what the outcome of this World Cup, South Norfolk Council has a flag of St George which it can raise on St George's Day, and whenever England are involved in big sporting occasions like the World Cup."

The flag was supplied by Piggotts, based in Ongar, Essex. They supply flags to clients ranging from Buckingham Palace to...South Norfolk Council.

The Council contacted them on Wednesday, and the flag was delivered less than two days later. It is made of strong, light but high quality sewn fabric, which means it flies in a breeze, and is built to last for many more World Cups.

Related pages

• Latest news