The new Cumbria flag – a community flag representing the county as a whole – has entered the UK Flag Registry.
Ben Walker’s winning design features a bold horizontal zigzag pattern in green and yellow, representing the rugged local landscape.
Above this, on a blue field, is a heraldic ancient crown, evoking Cumbria’s past as an independent kingdom.
A public vote chose Ben’s design from six shortlisted from 100s of entries by a panel of local judges.
FI Communities Vexillologist Philip Tibbetts, who advised the competition, praised the new flag.
It conveys a ‘clear and unique meaning rooted in Cumbria’s landscape and history’, said Philip.
And at the same it fulfils the technical requirements of good design.
After a blessing and presentation to the Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Alexander Scott, a hoisting ceremony at Carlisle Cathedral on 5 September unveiled the winning flag.
For the organisers, the new emblem will represent Cumbrian people, history and landscape for generations to come.
As a shared symbol of identity and pride, it complements the historic county flags of Cumberland, Westmorland, Lancashire and Yorkshire.
It has no links to government or politics and will be free to fly for any individual or group wishing to express their links with the region.
The full list of Pantone® colours is: Yellow 123, Gold 1235, Blue 280, Green 356.
