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'Go home' graffiti painted on the Stray

Monday, 1 September 2025 07:15

Graffiti has appeared on the Stray in Harrogate. (Image: Victoria Lain)

Offensive graffiti displaying the words 'go home' has appeared on the Stray in Harrogate over the weekend.

Road signs, roundabouts and other signage have been painted with red England flags in recent days as part of an organised effort called Operation Raise the Colours.

And vandals have taken to the Stray near Oatlands Drive to paint the words ‘our country, go home' alongside an English flag.

One Harrogate resident called the graffiti “horrible”.

In North Yorkshire, council chiefs say St George’s flags painted onto roundabouts and other road markings will be painted over, while flags attached to street furniture will be removed.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, Councillor Malcolm Taylor, said:

“While we respect individuals’ rights to fly and paint flags on their own private property, they must not do so on public property.

“Such actions are not only illegal but also pose a safety risk to both pedestrians and motorists. The removal of unauthorised flags and markings also incurs costs to the taxpayer and may lead to delays for road users.

“Any flags painted on roundabouts or road markings will be removed as soon as resources allow. Flags affixed to street furniture, such as lampposts, will also be taken down.

“We appreciate the public’s cooperation in helping to maintain safety and respect for these shared spaces.”

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