Alarm has been expressed by neighbours and councillors alike over the flying of flags and graffiti as part of ‘Operation Raise the Colours’ in Reading.
Neighbours and councillors in Reading are alarmed by the flags and graffiti linked to 'Operation Raise the Colours'. Union flags and St George's crosses have been spotted throughout the town, mirroring similar activism nationwide.
In Tilehurst, resident Anna voiced concerns, labelling the flag displays as actions by the 'far right'. She referenced a report from Hope Not Hate, highlighting that figures like Andy Saxon, Tommy Robinson, and Guramit Singh, former members of the English Defence League (EDL), are behind the campaign.
"I’ve just walked through the centre of Tilehurst and can see that the far right have put up 10 flags on the lamp posts," Anna noted in her email to local Liberal Democrat councillors.
Councillors Anne Thompson and James Moore reported the unauthorised flags to Reading Borough Council. Cllr Thompson said many residents have expressed concern, adding that the Council's streetlighting contractor will remove the flags. She encouraged locals to report any flag sightings to ensure they are taken down promptly.
Cllr Thompson remarked, "While we don’t know the motivation behind the flags, the feelings of intimidation expressed by residents cannot be ignored. Our national flags should inspire pride, not fear." Anna appreciated the response as a glimmer of hope against a potential far-right government.
In East Reading, St George's crosses were found spray-painted on pedestrian crossings. Opposition leader Rob White reported this to the council, expressing disappointment on X, stating, "Greens welcome migrants and will continue to fight for public service investment."
A council spokesperson acknowledged the desire for patriotism but noted that the flags and graffiti pose safety risks and will be removed. Cllr Dave McElroy criticized the council's response, calling the situation an attempt to inflame tensions against minorities.
It’s worth noting that the EDL has been inactive since 2015.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
