Carry on flying the flag for World Cup dream

COUNCIL and police chiefs have reassured residents and landlords they can display England flags in homes and pubs during the World Cup.

Incidents elsewhere in the country had raised fears the authorities are cracking down on fans displaying their patriotism as they cheer on Rooney and the boys this summer.

But Oldham Council and Greater Manchester Police have both told the Chronicle they have no problem with people flying the St George Cross.

Workers at Nottingham City Council took down 27 flags flown from lamp posts by grandmother Doreen Carnelley because of health and safety fears — leaving the 74-year-old in tears after finding them dumped in her hedge.

She had hoisted the flags during the last six World Cups and European Championships outside her home in Sturgeon Avenue, Clifton.

Nottingham City Council insisted it was illegal to attach anything to lampposts without permission, but conceded that workers should have spoken to Mrs Carnelley first to explain why the flags needed to be removed.

The issue prompted Local Government Minister Grant Shapps to warn: “Ahead of the World Cup, communities across England will want to wave the flag of St George with pride. Councils should show some common-sense and not be overzealous in applying petty rules.

“The World Cup is a great opportunity for local communities of all backgrounds to pull together.

“Councils should do their bit in helping reclaim the English flag as a proud symbol of our nation’s identity.”

An Oldham Council spokesman said residents are allowed to display the national flag on their property.

Meanwhile, one resident has started a Facebook page over fears that the police are visiting pubs and clubs to ask them to ban England flags and people wearing England shirts during the football tournament, which starts on July 11 in South Africa.

Matt Mullen says his Internet page, “Fly Your Flags, Wear Your Shirts, It’s Not Racist, Just Supporting England”, has more than 50,000 backers.

But a GMP spokeswoman said the force had no such intentions. Some pubs may have policies banning football shirts, though.

Supt Leor Giladi, of Greater Manchester Police said: “GMP has not imposed any restrictions in relation to people wearing England shirts, or flying the England flag.”