Flag of St George flies for England’s rugby heroes

South Norfolk Council is flying the flag of St George as a mark of support for England's rugby heroes in one of the most important weekends for sport in years.

Deputy Council Leader Councillor Martin Wilby, who asked for the flag to be raised, was joined by Councillor Jon Herbert, Cabinet Member for Commercial Services, to do the honours today (Friday).

Councillor Herbert, who has tickets for the World Cup final and is travelling to Paris tomorrow, also wished Forumla One racing ace Lewis Hamilton success, as he goes for World Championship glory in Brazil.

Councillor Herbert said:

"Sport is important in our everyday lives, and none more so than at the moment as we support our national heroes in their attempt to achieve the ultimate – world championship glory.

“I’ll be in Paris supporting our rugby heroes this weekend, with an eye on supporting Lewis Hamilton in Brazil – good luck to them all!”

Councillor Wilby said:

"We at South Norfolk Council are proud to show support for our National Rugby Team by flying the St George’s Flag.

“I will be at our local pub watching it on the big screen cheering England on to victory.”

Councillor Wilby's request to have the flag of St George flying for a major sporting occasion like the rugby World Cup is not the first time.

He had the flag raised at the council during the England football team's World Cup campaign last year.

The decision to fly the flag of St George follows Council Leader John Fuller's request to have the Union Flag flown at the Council headquarters in Long Stratton every day instead, of just on set occasions specified by the Government.

In June this year, the Government bowed to popular, patriotic pressure, and announced a consultation on public flag flying. The consultation is due to end next month.

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