Clacton residents speak up on St George's flags campaign

David Winne fully supports the display of the flags(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

"People locally have also been putting up the flag to commemorate the Second World War.

"I think the history of Sir St George fighting the dragon has deep symbolism. It isn't so much about the crusades.

"I am thinking about football. As a Christian, I am thinking about the cross, redemption, rebuilding people's lives.

"It's not illegal to fly the flag. Why is our freedom of expression being questioned?"

Keith Simmons(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

He said: "I think displaying the flag is a wonderful thing to be patriotic. If it was being misused, I wouldn't support it.

"In general, it's always a good sign of demonstrating that we are proud of the Union flag, the St George's flag and hope to see as many of them flown as possible.

"But if it's for the wrong reason, I would not be in favour of it."

Mark Guest(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

"It's a matter of pride and I think St George's Day should be recognized far more than what it is now.

"But I don't agree with the flags painted on roundabouts or other people's property. That's vandalism – it's wrong."

Jamie Toomey(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

"I think flags are good, but on zebra crossings no. Not on other people's houses.

"If it is done right, it's a good thing – a thing to be proud of."

Martin Whaley(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

"I think it's brilliant. I go to the campaigns, and lots of flags have gone up in different areas, and people are very positive about it.

"We have our own agenda about people being in the country that shouldn't be. It's our strong belief."

Speaking about roundabouts and zebra crossings being painted, he added: "I think it's a brilliant idea. I think we are showing solidarity.

"Why should the powers to be – i.e. Kier Starmer – turn around and say you can't be doing this. This is our country and we should be proud we are British and we are here."

Ilze Gutmane(Image: Newsquest Reporter)

She said: "I have seen the St George's flags around. I don't know the history of them well, but I think it's a way of how people express their opinion.

"And I think people of this country are allowed to do so, because it is their country, and if they want to show their opinions, their patriotism, it's completely normal.

"I am originally from Latvia and if they did something like this there, I would be totally fine with it. There's nothing wrong with it. It's your country, you can do whatever you want in it."