THE current craze of flag painting on public structures has reached Ross-on-Wye. Union Jacks and St George’s crosses are being painted on various surfaces across the UK.

And now the zebra crossing in Station Street has been painted with the cross of St George.

The craze of St. George refers to a recent trend of residents displaying flags on lampposts and other structures across England.

This movement, dubbed ‘Operation Raise the Colours’, is driven by a desire for patriotism, but it has sparked controversy, with some community groups describing it as a provocation and "far-right orchestrated attack," while others view it as a legitimate expression of pride.

There are many examples of flags being raised, or crosses being painted on roundabouts or walls being carried out by ordinary people inspired by posts on social media.

Another organisation, Hope Not Hate pointed out that there is nothing wrong with raising the Union Jack or cross of St George.

However, despite what people claim on social media, it’s not illegal to be proud to be English or British.

It also stated that it’s also true that not everyone who has raised a flag is far right. But the fact that much of this wave of activism is being organised by well-known racists and extremists does raise questions about the motivations behind much of Operation Raise the Colours.

Sales of Union and St George’s flags have risen by around 20 per cent due to the current craze and flagpole purchases have doubled in recent weeks, according to Britain’s leading flag suppliers.

Herefordshire Council stated that when it comes to road markings councils must follow very clear central government guidance about how highways infrastructure, such as mini-roundabouts, are presented and preserved in order to keep roads legally compliant.