A LOCAL authority has denied reports that it had banned a farmer from flying a county flag over his property.

Andrew Wainwright, of Sproxton Hall, near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, used to fly the Union flag on his land, but when he swapped it for the Yorkshire flag - a white rose on a blue background -a complaint was made to Ryedale District Council.

Mr Wainwright said he was told to remove the flag or pay £60 for advertising consent.

However, a statement issued by the authority indicated he was unlikely to face any action.

A spokesman said: "If he wishes to continue flying the flag, he can do so.

"Mr Wainwright was advised in July that the flag requires consent and was requested to apply in order to regularise the situation.

"As no application has been received, the council will have to consider whether to take any action.

"No decision has or is scheduled to be made by the council. This breach of control continues to be a low-priority investigation."

Posters have started to appear in Sproxton supporting Mr Wainwright.

Last night, he said: "I hope they will just let it rest so all the fuss dies down.

"After all, there is so much public opinion on my side, it is them who will end up with egg on their faces, as pursuing this any further would be a waste of time and money.

"It would be different if I was advertising a make of car or something. However, I believe other councils turn a blind eye to the Yorkshire flag, so why can't they do the same here?''