Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council has stayed firm in its decision to fly the Ukrainian flag, despite criticism from locals.

The Wiltshire town has proudly displayed the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine since March 2022 to show support for the country during its ongoing war with Russia.

Speaking about the decision at the time, former Mayor of the town, Coun Steve Walls, said: “Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council unanimously agreed to fly the Ukrainian flag from the flagpole in the High Street.

“Like much of the rest of the world, we are solidly behind the brave people of Ukraine who are resisting a devastating invasion by its much larger neighbour Russia.”

But almost two years on from this decision, some locals believe that it is now time to take it down.

The town council revealed that they faced criticism from the public in December 2023, with one resident demanding that the flag be taken down.

Others commenting on Facebook have questioned why the town council are displaying a Ukrainian flag but have not acknowledged the ongoing Palestinian conflict.

But in a statement released on January 3, Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council has now emphasised that the Ukrainian flag will not be going anywhere.

It said: “This matter was discussed, and the council all reaffirmed their decision to fly the Ukraine flag, and to continue to do so.”