Flying the flag

Moorcroft street, Oldham: ready for kick-off

THE flag of St George will fly proudly over the Civic Centre on England’s matchdays as Oldham Council do their bit to boost World Cup spirit.

Pubs have been given permission to stay open until 1am on days when England games kick off at 8pm or later, and taxi drivers have been given the green light to attach flags to their cars.

Visitors to the council website will see it sports a banner with information about World Cup-related events in Oldham.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “The World Cup is always a huge event that ends up drawing in even the people who wouldn’t normally watch football.

“It’s a brilliant occasion for communities to come together. We’re already seeing flags and bunting going up on homes and streets across the borough that are adding a real splash of colour to the summer.”