County's new community flag unveiled

The zig-zag pattern represents Cumbria's rugged landscapes, while the crown references the area's history as a kingdom in its own right

Cumbria's first official community flag has been unveiled, following a county-wide competition and public vote.

The winning design features a bold zig-zag pattern, representing the rugged local landscape, and a heraldic ancient crown – a symbol of Cumbria's past as a kingdom.

It was raised during a special ceremony at Carlisle Cathedral, after being blessed and presented to the Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Alexander Scott.

The flag, which has no connection to any government or political process, will be available for use by individuals or groups wishing to express their connection to the region.

The design, by Ben Walker, was one of six shortlisted by a panel of local judges from hundreds of entries and put to a public vote.

It was praised by Philip Tibbetts, communities vexillologist at the United Kingdom's Flag Institute.

He described it as not only meeting the technical requirements of good design but also conveying a "clear and unique meaning rooted in Cumbria's landscape and history".

'Identity and pride'

Although Cumbria already has historic county flags, including those of Cumberland and Westmorland, it has not previously had a registered community flag to represent the county as a whole.

Organisers say the new emblem stands as a shared symbol of identity and pride, representing the county's people, its history, and its landscape for generations to come.

Complementing, rather than replacing the traditional banners, it would be something that schools, local businesses, sports clubs and individuals could fly freely and with pride, they added.