Could you design county's new community flag?

A competition has been launched to design a new community flag for Cumbria

Flags can be used to express identity, allegiances and social pride, and are seen everywhere from government buildings, to festivals and football matches.

But unlike many English counties, Cumbria does not have an official community flag.

That is why the Lord-Lieutenant and the High Sheriff of Cumbria have launched a new competition for residents to create a design for a county flag.

Lord-Lieutenant Alexander Scott said the new emblem would "provide an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate our shared identity".

High Sheriff Chris Holmes said the flag would be free to use for anyone "proud of Cumbria" and encouraged local people to get involved.

"The rich heritage of the county does provide plenty of inspiration for designing a flag," he said.

Expression of pride

Any member of the community is welcome to submit an entry - and a competition pack is available on the Lord-Lieutenant's website.

The winning flag will be used to celebrate the region's history, express community pride and increase recognition and awareness of Cumbria, he said.

However, it will have no connection to any government or political process, and will be available soley for use by individuals or groups wishing to express their connection to the region.

Cumbria already has flag representing the local authority, which was created in 1974 when the ceremonial county was formed. It is flown from official buildings, including council offices.

The Cumbria competition is being run with support from Cumberland Council, Westmorland and Furness Council, Carlisle Cathedral, the University of Cumbria and the Flag Institute.

'Ancient origins'

Philip Tibbetts is a communities vexillologist - an expert who studies flags and related emblems, at the Flag Institute.

He has previously worked with communities in Penrith, Appleby, Nenthead and Wreay to develop flags for the towns.

He said: "Given the ancient origins and unique history of the wider Cumbrian region, encompassing it's time as a Welsh-speaking region, and later incorporation into England, I am excited by the potential inspiration that can be drawn on.

"I look forward to seeing the winner take its rightful place flying next to the region's constituent historic county and town flags in future."

The competition closes on 25 April.