Residents in Crook, County Durham have been proudly flying the St George’s Cross as they raise flags across the town.

Richard Morgan, a local in the area, told GB News that the display is "about pride, not politics" and added that "the flags are a symbol of unity, identity and tradition."

It comes as a movement dubbed "Operation Raise the Colours" this week has seen defiant Briton hang hundreds of St George's flags across the country in reaction to councils taking them down.

Operation Raise the Colours this week has seen defiant Briton hang hundreds of St George's flags across the country

The Union Jack and St George's flags have been raised by locals up and down the country as part of the movement.

Flags were first hung up in Birmingham and east London this month before being taken down by council chiefs.

Mr Morgan told GB News: "I want to make it clear why England flags have been hung in Crook. We are not 'far-right racist nationalist.'

"We are simply proud, working-class men who love our country and want it to be a safe place for our kids.

"If anyone doesn’t agree with the banners put up at the traffic lights then I think you may be the issue here not us. We are not against immigration, we are against illegal unvetted immigration.

"This country is and always has been a melting pot of all nationalities and we love it for that , but we are loosing ourselves and it’s time to be proud of our country and our traditions."

"I feel proud of the St George’s Cross because it represents unity, identity, and tradition.

"It’s a symbol of where we come from, our history, and the shared values that bring communities together.

"For me, flying the flag is about pride in England, celebrating our culture, and showing respect for everyone who came before us.

"It reminds me that we’ve got so much to be proud of as a nation, from our resilience and achievements to our sense of community.

The Union Jack and St George's flags have been raised by locals up and down the country

"I think having a Reform council has made people realise it's not racist to speak up about our concerns regarding illegal immigration."

It comes as the Prime Minister said he "absolutely" supported people raising English flags.

The PM's spokesman said: "I haven't asked him about specific cases, specific councils, but I think the PM has always talked about his pride in being British, the patriotism he feels".

Discussing whether Keir Starmer supports people flying the flag, the spokesman added: "Absolutely - we put up English flags all around Downing Street".