Contractors removing flags face abuse - councillor

Contractors called in to remove St George's flags from lampposts in East Sussex have faced "verbal abuse", a local councillor has said.

Bridget Fishleigh, an independent city councillor in Brighton & Hove, said the abuse had led to workers having to leave the flags in place along the A259.

Groups claiming responsibility for putting up the flags have said they were motivated by pride and patriotism. Others have said it felt provocative at a time when tensions were running high across England over immigration.

Sussex Police said the matter fell under the responsibility of the local authority and National Highways, who have been approached for comment.

The force said it was not currently investigating.

"If reports are made to police regarding criminal damage or threats towards workers, they will be investigated and dealt with in the usual way," a spokesperson added.

In a post on social media, Ms Fishleigh said some flags that had been taken down had been replaced with new ones.

"The contractors are unwilling to proceed with further removals unless police are present to ensure the safety of their staff," she said.

It comes as several St George's flags and graffiti appeared in Eastbourne on Saturday, including one spray-painted on a roundabout.

Flags have also been erected in Lewes District Council's area.

Council leader Zoe Nicholson said there were many positive cultural associations with the St George's cross flag that should be celebrated.

"Most recently, it was wonderful to see it waved alongside our victorious Lionesses during the European Championship final," she said.

"However, it is deeply regrettable that the flag has also been hijacked by individuals and groups promoting extremist ideologies - the very ones this nation fought against in World War Two."

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