Cheer we go!

Council chiefs say fly your flags with pride

OLDHAM will be flying the flag for England . . . and that’s official.

Council chiefs have relaxed the rules for taxi drivers and civic centre staff to cheer on England’s bid to bring home the World Cup.

Host nation South Africa take on Mexico in the first match this afternoon with England opening their campaign against the USA tomorrow evening.

To show their national pride, the borough’s 859 private hire drivers, 85 hackney carriages, Street Scene team members and parks staff will be allowed to display flags on their vehicles for the duration of the tournament — as long as they don’t create a hazard.

Oldham Council has adopted a “common sense approach” in encouraging local football fans to enjoy the World Cup and fly the flag of St George on their vehicles.

Taj Khan, owner of Skyline Private Hire, Oldham Road, Failsworth, said: “The new council policy is fine by me.

“Our drivers will definitely do it and show their support for the England team.”

During the tournament, the civic centre will also fly the flag on England’s matchdays, while visitors to the council website can see a new patriotic theme backing Fabio Capello’s men.

Council leader Howard Sykes said: “The World Cup is the biggest sporting event on the planet and it is only natural that people want to support their team.

“Nobody should be prevented from flying their team’s flag and I will be proud to support England and delighted to see football fans of all persuasions showing their support.”