A former investigator with West Midlands Police has condemned Birmingham City Council's decision to take down Union Jack displays from street furniture, calling the move "disgusting".

Hayley Owens expressed astonishment during a GB News appearance that such a discussion was even necessary. "It's not harming anyone. Flags bring such community and pride that has been missing for so long," she stated.

The ex-officer dismissed suggestions that the displays might cause offence to some residents. "I don't see how you can live in England by choice and be offended by that. I'm not having it," she declared.

Owens argued that the flag displays were simply an expression of local patriotism. "This was a load of local lads wanting to show a bit of patriotism in the community," she explained.

Birmingham City Council has initiated the removal of patriotic displays from street lighting

Birmingham City Council has initiated the removal of patriotic displays from street lighting across the city, asserting that unauthorised attachments pose safety risks.

The Labour-controlled authority issued guidance stating that individuals who affix items to lampposts "could be putting their lives and those of motorists and pedestrians at risk". Officials emphasised that the policy applies to all unauthorised materials, not specifically targeting national symbols.

The council's statement highlighted concerns about "unauthorised attachments on street furniture, particularly tall structures like lamp posts", describing them as potentially hazardous. The displays, positioned approximately 20 feet above ground level, include both the Union flag and St George's Cross.

Council representatives confirmed their stance applies equally to commercial banners and advertisements alongside the patriotic emblems.

Hayley Owens joined Martin Daubney on GB News

Dozens of national flags appeared on lampposts throughout Weoley Castle and Northfield in recent weeks

Dozens of national flags appeared on lampposts throughout Weoley Castle and Northfield in recent weeks as part of an unofficial campaign by local residents. The displays garnered widespread approval from inhabitants and social media users, with many requesting similar decorations for their own neighbourhoods.

Birmingham City Council has responded swiftly to the unauthorised installations. A council representative revealed that officials have already taken down approximately 200 promotional materials and flags from lampposts since January began, with removal efforts set to continue.

The authority maintains that its actions stem from public safety considerations rather than targeting specific symbols. Officials stressed that the removal policy encompasses all unauthorised items attached to street furniture, including commercial advertising materials alongside the patriotic displays that have appeared across these Birmingham neighbourhoods.

Local inhabitants have voiced frustration about the situation, with some expressing weariness at feeling compelled to justify their national identity. The controversy has highlighted tensions in the community, where residents installed the displays as what they termed a "patriotic outpouring" over the past fortnight.

The dispute has drawn attention to Birmingham City Council's recent troubles, including financial difficulties and industrial action affecting waste collection services. Critics have questioned the authority's priorities in addressing the flag displays whilst facing these broader challenges.