Shrewsbury flags group hit back over abuse claims and insist they are victims of 'stalkers'
Protestors insisted they are “non-aggressive” after a council claimed staff and elected members have been threatened.
A group putting up flags in Shrewsbury have insisted they are “non-aggressive” after a council said its workers and councillors have been threatened.
Shropshire Council said staff and elected members have faced “abuse, harassment and intimidation” amid the row.
Raise The Flags Shrewsbury Plus, the group largely responsible for hanging the England and United Kingdom flags on lamp posts in the county town, have hit back at the claim, insisting they are the ones who are victims of stalkers and abuse.
A spokesperson for the group said: “Confirmation the flags are not illegal! Intimidation, harassment and abuse is! So why don't the Shropshire Council or police listen to our reports about stalkers, abuse and harassment?
“We do not promote hate, intimidation, or aggression in any form. Our events and activities are open to everyone, and we actively encourage respectful behaviour at all times.
“We do not approach or engage with members of the public unless they choose to engage with us first.
“We remain committed to working within the law, supporting the community, and ensuring everything we do is safe, respectful, and transparent.
“We want to be absolutely clear — we are continuing our work and documenting all incidents, interactions, and police attendances. This information is being logged and reviewed alongside legal representatives and, where appropriate, will be raised with the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
“We ask Shropshire Council to clearly explain: what exactly is illegal about putting up flags?
“Why do individuals committing theft, criminal damage, and carrying items that could be considered offensive weapons in public appear to be facing no action?
“At present, this looks like inconsistent enforcement, and the public deserves transparency.
“We will continue to act within the law, remain non-aggressive, and focus on both our community work and maintaining what we put up.”
It comes after a Shropshire Council spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, directly linked to the removal of unauthorised flags, we are also seeing a rise in reports of abuse, harassment and intimidation directly at our residents, staff, and at individual local councillors.
“Staff and members are being threatened for explaining the council’s position, when they attempt to remove any unauthorised flags, and now even in day-to-day work to repair street lighting.
“In the case of intimidation, harassment or abuse where a criminal offence is being committed, we have in these instances strongly encouraged reporting directly to the police so they can be properly recorded and assessed.”
The initiative has frequently been criticised by opponents who say the endeavours are based firmly around anti-immigration sentiments.
Organisers of the Shropshire group deny that but are clear the efforts are rooted in politics, saying: “Our stance is not about division, but about change.
“We believe this country deserves better, and that starts with fresh ideas, accountability, and new leadership.
“We are calling for real change in the system, including the opportunity for new parties to step forward and represent the people properly.”
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