Rallying call to action for historic counties celebrations

A renaissance of historic county flags is well underway as the government publishes guidance to help councils celebrate the rich heritage and culture of their counties.

The new Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government guidance helps local authorities recognise historic counties as a way to boost community pride and provide opportunities for families to learn about local traditions. This includes consideration of placing road signs to mark the boundaries of the historic counties, flying county flags whenever possible, designing flags for counties without one and celebrating county days.

50 registered flags of the historic counties of Great Britain will fly alongside the Union flag in the heart of Parliament Square in support of a colourful celebration of the nation’s history and culture on 23 July – Historic County Flags Day.

Jake Berry, Minister for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth, said: “Our new guidance helps local authorities celebrate historic counties, their shared heritage, culture, history and our great nation. In government, we are throwing our full weight behind historic counties through proudly flying 50 iconic county flags in the heart of Parliament Square for Historic County Flags Day on 23 July.

“I am delighted that this campaign has won support from the County Councils Network and I look forward to seeing the celebrations local authorities across the country have planned to promote historic counties in their communities.”

Martin Hill, County Councils Network devolution spokesman, said: “County councils are an integral part of England’s history and they continue to be part of people’s local identity. The historic nature of counties forms a key part CCN member councils’ work to promote their areas as great places to visit, live and work.

“The County Councils Network welcomes the government promoting the significance of counties, both economically and socially. At the same time, it is important that this guidance recognises the importance of existing county boundaries in enabling county councils to deliver efficient local services, such as transport and highways, and economic growth. County councils should retain local discretion over how they use their history and identity to ensure that their 26 million residents remain clear about who is providing the services they use each day.”