A NEW union flag is flying over Redditch Town Hall thanks to the generosity of a local business.
Simon Thomas, managing director of Headless Cross firm Thomas Brothers Funeral Directors, funded the flag after noticing the old one looked tatty.
He said: “I know the council is strapped for cash but I couldn’t drive by and see the flag looking tired and shabby, especially in such an important year.”
Mr Thomas said he was inspired by the fact it is the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War and his three brothers are all former Royal Marines.
War veteran Sid Reynolds, from the town’s Royal British Legion, was special guest at the ceremony along with Mr Thomas and Redditch Mayor Pat Witherspoon.
Coun Witherspoon said: “The council is very proud of its armed forces, past and present, and this is a very generous gesture which will see us mark this important year in style.”