Over 20 Union flags have been installed along a large section of Burnham-On-Sea seafront this week in an unscheduled display.
Three people from online group Flagman UK were seen on Burnham’s seafront webcam installing the flags around 10pm on Tuesday evening (September 1st) between Burnham’s Pavilion and the jetty.
Somerset Council recently said that “unauthorised flags along roads will be removed”, citing safety concerns and a lack of authorisation.
National flags have been attached to lampposts in Weston over the summer and other towns by Flagman UK, and the same group confirmed it is behind Burnham’s display.
It says on its social media page: “After all your messages and support, Flagman UK had to come! We even found special-size flags just for Burnham. It was pitch black when we finished, so when you wake up tomorrow, look up!”
A Somerset Council spokesperson says: “We understand some residents may want to show a feeling of national pride and they are welcome to do so. However, we would ask people not to tie flags to lighting columns as they could potentially obscure signage or cause a distraction if they become loose.”
The council says its approach is to assess whether the flags pose an immediate hazard.
“If they do, we will remove them as soon as possible. If they are not, removing them will be done as part of our normal maintenance programme, with the aim of minimising the cost to council tax payers,” the council adds.
