Landlord may have to remove England flag from pub

A giant white flag could be removed from a village pub, after accusations it is "out of keeping" with the local area.

Jerry Kunkler said he painted a St George's Cross on the white front of The Moonrakers Inn in Pewsey, Wiltshire in 2016 to show his support for English sports teams.

Wiltshire Council launched an investigation in November 2025 after a complaint was received that the pub looked like "the headquarters of the National Front".

Planning officers are now recommending that the red cross should be painted over as it is "out of keeping" with the village Conservation Area, with a decision due on 16 April.

Kunkler - who has been a Conservative councillor for more than 30 years - will not be able to speak at the meeting as he is a serving councillor, but a statement will be read on his behalf, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

In a report to be considered by the council, planning officer Pippa Card says that under 1990 planning rules, "special regard be given to the desirability of preserving listed buildings, their settings or any features of special architectural or historic interest which they possess."

She added: "The permanent painted decoration is not sympathetic to the building's architectural detailing or its setting within the conservation area, or the wider context of the setting of neighbouring listed buildings."

The report said 12 public representations have been made with six people in favour of the decoration, four against, and two holding mixed views.

Pewsey Parish Council made no comment.

The Moonrakers Inn, also known as the Moonies, was an inspiration for the award-winning play Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth, and is located on Pewsey's high street.

Kunkler has previously decorated the inside of the pub for occasions such as George's Day and dressed up to mark the occasions.

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