Complaints over “patriotic” flags in Bloxham
12/09/2025
The Parish Council has recommended people contact the County Council if they aren’t happy
A number of St George and Union flags have appeared on lamp posts around Bloxham.
It mirrors scenes elsewhere in the country in recent weeks with those flying the symbols saying they have been motivated by patriotism.
But a number of people in Bloxham aren’t happy with one saying: “Sadly the village now looks like the Shankhill Road”.
Bloxham Parish Council has advised residents who aren’t happy how to report the situation. In a message posted online they said: “If any members of the community wish to request the removal of flags displayed on County Council assets, such as street lights and railings, please report these to the County Council’s Fix My Street web site, with the street name and column number (for street lights). Photos are also helpful.
“Permission has not been given by the County Council.”
A number of people have taken the advice with one anonymous poster writing: “7 flags have been hung from street lights without authorisation or agreement, the timing of which can only be aligned with a wider protest by a far-right movement supported by an ignorant but vocal minority”
Another added: “These flags have been hung by an ignorant minority and it serves to make Bloxham look like a dump. This is a political statement and as such they should be removed. Hang them from houses if you wish, not our streets. Please can they be removed so that I don’t have to wince every time I pop to the shops. The shame!!”
One person noted why they believe the flags had been displayed: “The flags were put up yesterday, which in light of recent contexts incite hatred, division and violence. No one should live in fear, least of all on public property. Please remove these and take measures against it happening again.”
Another was concerned for parents taking their children to school: “Flags along Courtington Lane and Tadmarton Road have [been] put up on lamposts for political reasons to intimidate. These are pavements used by young primary school children who should not have to have explained to them why.”
Banbury FM has contacted Oxfordshire County Council for a statement on the situation. In West Northamptonshire Council’s area advice has been supplied to local residents on flag flying.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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Keith Janes On 15/09/2025 at 5:31 pm
It is Battle of Britain Day today so a pity the flags were removed. If people feel threatened by their own national flag maybe they should go elsewhere.