A member of a local branch of the movement "Raise the Colours" is set to appear in court tomorrow, following allegations of hanging flags in a manner deemed illegal.
The individual, a leading figure in the Oxfordshire branch of the group, is due to appear at Reading Crown Court. The group has since distanced itself from the individual, stating that they were not aware of the actions and had never been affiliated with them.
The movement gained traction last year for hanging flags in the wake of anti-immigration protests across the UK. However, locals had complained about the safety risks, intimidation, and distress linked to the illegal placement of flags.
Oxfordshire County Council took measures to stop the flag-raising, winning a High Court injunction against the individual and others involved. The council's leader, Councillor Tim Bearder, commented on the decision, stating that it helps protect residents and supports the council's responsibility to keep the highway safe.
The councillor emphasized that the issue is not about the flag itself, but about the unlawful behavior that has caused fear within communities. The council proudly flies the Union Flag and St George's flag at County Hall and supports the right of residents to display their own flags.
