'Welcome' sign defaced as culture wars rage on

RESIDENTS GIVE VIEWS ON SYMBOLIC BATTLE TAKING PLACE ON ROAD

- By JOEL MOORE

ST George's crosses have returned and signs have been defaced in the latest development in a symbolic battle over flags on a city road.

Half a dozen placards reading “We are kind” and “We are welcoming” have been taped over and joined by two England flags on lampposts along Mansfield Road, next to Forest Recreation Ground.

The signs, which now resemble makeshift St George's crosses, replaced flags put up earlier this month.

It is unclear who is behind any of the acts, linked to “Operation Raise the Colours,” an online movement which has seen thousands of Union and St George’s flags put up across the UK.

Those behind the movement say they are motivated by pride in the flag - but some have expressed discomfort due to tensions over immigration and the use of the St George's cross by far-right groups.

With the red paint of the culture war spilling on to Nottingham’s main arteries, we asked residents and passersby what they thought.

Stephen Cross, from Wollaton, said he preferred the England flags.