The Barra flag has gained official recognition from the Lyon Court and entered the UK Flag Registry.
The community has used the distinctive green and white Scandinavian-style flag for decades.
Until now, however, the flag had no legal recognition.
Last December Alasdair Allan MSP held a community meeting to explore possible registration.
Communities Vexillologist Philip Tibbetts was there to advise how to submit a petition to the Lyon Court.
Dolina Manford, Chair of Northbay Community Council, championed the initiative locally.
Support came from Barra’s other Community Council, and funding came from local community charity Barra and Vatersay Voluntary Action.
Dolina Manford, Alasdair Allan and Philip Tibbetts are all delighted by the news.
‘I am very happy to see the Barra flag has now received official recognition,’ said Dolina Manford. ‘… now the green and white Nordic cross used in Barra for a number of years is officially registered … .’
‘I am delighted that Barra’s flag now has legal recognition and protection,’ said Alasdair Allan. It will help ‘to boost the island’s marketing efforts as well as celebrate its unique identity’.
‘It is wonderful to see the Barra flag achieve official recognition,’ commented Philip Tibbetts. ‘I am sure it will serve as a brilliant example to the many other communities thinking of developing their own flag … .”
View the Barra Flag in the UK Flag Registry here.
