Radstock flag protest

There were protests this weekend over the suggestion that Radstock Town Council had refused to fly the English flag because of fears it was offensive to Muslims.

The council has now voted unanimously to buy a St George’s flag and display it on "appropriate occasions".

Protesters from as far away as Newcastle converged on a Somerset town this morning following reports that the local council had banned the flag of St George but when they arrived discovered it still flying. Radstock Town Council said there is no ban.

Our reporter Nigel Turner has been trying to get to the bottom of the issue.

Protesters from as far away as Newcastle have been gathering in a Somerset town following reports that the local council had banned the flag of St George. Members of the English Defence League joined residents of Radstock in a demonstration at the flagpole close to the town's museum.

This morning the English flag was flying from the pole after Radstock Town Council borrowed one. In a statement Lesley Mansell, chair of Radstock Town Council, said: " Radstock Town Council wishes to clarify that at no point has a decision been taken to lower the St George's day flag.

"At our April meeting the council was informed that it does not have a Union Jack and a vote was taken and agreed by all to purchase one. The council did not vote to ban the St George's day flag nor any other flag."