Police investigate fake council flagpoles letter

A right wing Facebook group is being investigated by police over a post containing a fake letter claiming to be from Worcestershire County Council.

The group Worcester Patriots, which has more than 14,000 followers, claimed the council had approved £70,000 to be used to install "British flagpoles and flags at selected roundabouts".

The post showed a council letterhead which had supposedly been signed off by "Communications Office, Worcestershire County Council".

The council said it took the "sharing of fake information seriously and have reported it through the official channels", while West Mercia Police said it was working to establish if "any criminal offences have been committed".

A Worcestershire County Council spokesperson said: "We can confirm that the letter being shared on social media regarding funding of flag poles is fake and is not an official letter from the council."

They added: "Our position has not changed. The council has not committed any funds for the installation of flag poles."

Worcestershire County Council also confirmed the matter had been reported to Meta and the Home Office.

The BBC has contacted Meta, the Home Office and the Worcester Patriots for comment.

The letter reads: "Worcestershire County Council wishes to formally inform your organisation of a forthcoming civic improvement initiative taking place across the county.

"The council has approved the allocation of £70,000 to fund the installation of British flagpoles and flags at selected roundabouts, traffic islands, and other prominent locations throughout the Worcestershire area. This initiative forms part of a wider effort to enhance the appearance of public spaces while recognising the heritage and identity shared by many communities across the county.

"Planning and preparatory work for this project is currently under way. Installation is expected to begin in July, with council teams and approved contractors working to ensure that all installations are completed in accordance with highway safety standards and relevant planning regulations.

"We recognise the strong community interest in initiatives that celebrate local and national pride, and we hope that these improvements will be positively received by residents and visitors alike.

"Should your organisation require any further information regarding this project, please feel free to contact the Council's Communications Office."

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