AN engineer who tried to take down union jack and St George’s cross flags near a school in Sturminster Newton reportedly left the scene when he was met with abuse from members of the public.

Flags have been spotted on lampposts by Sturminster Newton High School on Bath Road- with similar scenes seen across the UK under the banner of patriotism, with roundabouts also painted with red crosses.

But this display of patriotism has been described as vandalism, with Dorset Council saying defacing road marking is illegal under the highways act and that flags should only be raised at home, at community events or on designated flagpoles.

Sturminster Newton Town Council issued a statement about the flags by the school and at Rolls Mill today (October 2) after they said they had a few enquiries, adding they informed SSE “immediately”.

A spokesperson for the town council said: “We had a response advising that an engineer had attempted to remove them but was met with abuse from members of the public and so left the site.”

They said they also reported the vandalism of road markings in the town centre, adding that the paint Dorset Council’s highways team uses is heat sealed and applied with specialist equipment which they said it not something the town council is able to do themselves.

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SSE told your New Blackmore Vale that street lighting is not in their jurisdiction, but said this would fall under the responsibility of the company Enerveo which is contracted out.

Jennie Harcourt, who was walking past the flags this morning, said she doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about.

“I don’t see what harm displaying our own country’s flag can really do,” she said. “Is it really that upsetting to see?

“The road markings are a different issue as I understand that they could be distracting to drivers, but flags should be unoffensive.”

Dorset Council said the decision to remove flags is not political.

A spokesperson said: “Dorset Council has a legal duty to maintain the safety and lawful use of public infrastructure. Under the Highways Act 1980, it is unlawful to deface road markings or place/affix any item to street furniture.

“Dorset Council enforces this consistently, regardless of the content or symbolism of the item.

“Any graffiti on roundabouts or flags/attachments of any kind placed on lampposts without express permission will be removed without notice.

“This is not a political decision. It is a matter of compliance, safety, and responsible management of public assets.”

The leader of Dorset Council, councillor Nick Ireland said: “We know how important national identity is to many people across Dorset.

“Symbols like the St George’s cross and the union flag can be a powerful way to show pride and community spirit – and as a council we’re proud to fly them at County Hall in Dorchester.

“We encourage residents who want to fly our national flags to do so in ways that are safe and respectful – at home, at community events, and on designated flagpoles. These are the spaces where pride can bring people together.

“Here in Dorset, we’re proud of our heritage and the values that define us – fairness, respect, and inclusion. Dorset is home to people from many backgrounds, and the strength of our communities lies in how we treat one another – with dignity and compassion.

“Let’s keep Dorset a place where pride is shown positively, and where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.”

Enerveo was contacted for comment.