Backlash as Welsh flags removed ... along with the Union ones

COUNCILS INSIST THEY ARE ACTING TO ENSURE SAFETY

- By OWEN HUGHES Chief Reporter

COUNCILS have come under fire for removing Welsh and union flags from lampposts and other street furniture in North Wales.

Recent weeks have seen flags hoisted across the UK - with St George’s and Union Jack flags appearing in England, and Y Ddraig Goch (the Red Dragon flag of Wales) joining union banners in this country.

The flags are viewed by many as a symbol of respect, patriotism and celebration but it comes amid tensions over immigration into the UK and has been seen by others as provocative.

In North Wales flags have appeared in numerous towns and villages - often on street furniture. But councils have now started to remove them, sparking an angry response.

Anglesey council were accused of being a “joke” for taking down flags from the Holyhead and Valley area while Denbighshire council were branded “a disgrace” after banners were brought down in Rhyl. The removal of the Welsh flag came under particular attack.