When I realised the flag festival had stopped, it was disappointing to hear that no one wanted to come forward and take it on. As a resident of Lechlade, I had got used to seeing the flags flying outside every summer. I had heard it was previously arranged by two people; one had relocated and the other gentleman sadly passed away.
After asking a patient of mine about the flag festival, at their next visit to see me I was presented with a spreadsheet of flags and poles. I surveyed the sheet and with my friend Hilary, we decided to get the ball rolling. We were informed by a previous organiser that we should plan for next year but I believed we could do it this year. An email address was created, Hilary and I flyered every building in Lechlade and we received such positive support by email and social media. Local residents were keen for it to happen this year. So, Hilary and I looked in to getting insurance as the local town council would not cover it (which we could not fathom). Only 9 residents did not reply, so we had 52 flag poles that we could use. Most flags were handed back to residents and local clubs/societies. However, as locals wanted it to happen, we created a new spreadsheet, received enough flags and volunteers came forward to help put the flags up. Hilary, Gabriella and I set aside one day to put the flags on to the poles (after they were delivered to my business by the Lechlade Lions). We had a cut off date to receive the flags, as putting them together took time and a large amount of space in my small business. The business club covered the cost of the insurance and flags went up with the help of The Lechlade Lions and local volunteers. We hope to take down the flags end of September/early October. Planning for the next flag festival will take place around April 2026. If you are a local club/organisation who would like to get their own flag made for the next festival, then do contact us Lechladeflags@gmail.com.
Hilary Knight and Camilla George
