Calls have been made for stronger enforcement against activists who have been attaching flags to lampposts along Weston-super-Mare’s seafront without permission. Helen Thornton, Labour councillor for Weston-super-Mare Uphill, questioned at a North Somerset Council meeting why those responsible have not faced arrest despite multiple incidents this summer.
The flags, including Union and St George’s Flags, were affixed to lampposts on Marine Parade on three occasions in July and August using cable ties. Each time, North Somerset Council removed the flags, citing concerns over public safety.
Attaching items to highway infrastructure without authorisation is an offence under section 132 of the Highways Act, carrying fines of up to £2,500. Ms Thornton stated at the full council meeting: “Flagman UK and Bristol Flagger have attached flags unlawfully on several occasions, and the council has acted to remove them each time. As this activity breaches the law, why have the police not intervened and arrested those responsible, especially when evidence is available publicly on Facebook?”
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The Flagman UK Facebook page displays videos of flag installations, accompanied by AI-generated music referencing tax payments. It also features confrontations with members of the public, including one involving Weston-super-Mare’s deputy mayor.
Hugh Malyan, the council’s cabinet member for highways and Labour councillor for Weston-super-Mare South Worle, explained: “Our CCTV teams alerted the police during the last two incidents, but due to operational priorities and resource constraints, officers were unable to respond. The police appear to regard this primarily as a highways issue rather than a policing matter. However, they are expected to act if there is criminal damage, public disorder, or threatening behaviour.”
He confirmed ongoing discussions between the council and police regarding future preventative measures to address the situation.
An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson added: “The hanging of flags from lampposts is considered a civil matter. Police intervention would only occur if there were reports of criminal damage, public order offences, or breaches of the peace.”