Arrest of Raise the Colours Leader Sparks Controversy Over Flag Campaign

Ryan Bridge, the co-founder of the flag campaign group Raise the Colours, was arrested on April 1, 2026, on suspicion of causing religiously and racially aggravated harassment. This arrest follows the group's recent activities of erecting hundreds of union and Saint George flags across England, which have drawn criticism for promoting anti-immigrant sentiments. Bridge was detained by Thames Valley police after reports of public order offences in Oxford, specifically on Abingdon Road.

The Guardian

In response to the group's actions, Oxfordshire County Council issued a legal notice on April 1, 2026, prohibiting Raise the Colours from continuing their flag installations. The council characterized the group's activities as acts of "intimidation and division," asserting that they have negatively impacted community feelings of safety and belonging. Liz Leffman, the leader of the council, stated that residents have reported feeling "distressed, unwelcome and unsafe" due to the flags.

The Guardian

Bridge was released on police bail the following day, with conditions that included a ban on visiting Oxfordshire. In a video posted on Facebook after his release, he expressed his frustration, stating, “Me putting the flag up in my country is causing alarm and distress to certain members of the public. It’s an absolute disgrace … we’ve got to march on, we’ve got to fight on.”

The Guardian

The council has reported that their teams, along with local residents who have attempted to remove the flags, have faced abuse and threats from supporters of Raise the Colours. This behavior has been condemned as "totally unacceptable." The council is considering further actions, including civil and criminal proceedings, should the group fail to comply with the legal notice.

The Guardian

Critics of Raise the Colours argue that the widespread installation of flags is not an expression of patriotism but rather a divisive act that exacerbates community tensions. The council's stance reflects a broader concern about the implications of such displays on social cohesion and public safety.

The Guardian

• “scale and persistence of this activity is affecting communities across Oxfordshire” — Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council

The Guardian

• “Our teams removing the flags, together with residents who have challenged the individuals installing them, have been subject to abuse and threatening behaviour. This is totally unacceptable.” — Oxfordshire County Council Statement

The Guardian

The situation remains dynamic, with the council poised to take further legal action if Raise the Colours does not adhere to the issued notice. The ongoing investigation by Thames Valley police into the public order offences will also continue, potentially leading to additional developments in the case.

The Guardian