Union Flag in Memorial Garden
Please be advised that the Union Flag is not currently being flown in the Memorial Garden in accordance with established practice. The flag has historically only been displayed on specific commemorative occasions, or special events.
Please note that the Memorial Garden is presently CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC due to ongoing regeneration works. Access is restricted for health and safety reasons during this construction period.
The temporary absence of the Union Flag constitutes NO DISRESPECT whatsoever to our Armed Forces or those commemorated in the Memorial Garden. This is standard practice that has been consistently followed in previous years. Following each commemorative period (such as Remembrance Month or Armed Forces Month), the flag is routinely removed until the next appropriate occasion, and this practice has not previously occasioned any concern or complaint.
Current Arrangements: The Northumberland Flag is presently being flown whilst the Union Flag undergoes repair and cleaning in readiness for Remembrance and the reopening of the garden. Whilst the flag pole is usually bare at this time of year, the Northumberland Flag has been used as an interim measure during this period of garden regeneration and Union Flag maintenance.
The Union Flag will be restored to its position for future commemorative occasions once building works are completed, repairs and cleaning are finished, and normal garden access is resumed.
Future Protocol Development: We will liaise with the Ashington Branch of the Royal British Legion regarding the establishment of a formalised flag flying protocol to avoid any confusion in the future. This consultation process will be actioned upon completion of the works to the garden.
