YORKSHIRE'S traditional white roses are causing a prickly problem.

The flowers entwining imposing metal gates to the Army Foundation College, in Harrogate, are supposed to represent the proud White Rose of Yorkshire.

But closer examination reveals that they are, in fact, Lancashire blooms.

Preserved heraldic designs - backed by generations of true Tykes - have dictated that the Yorkshire rose should have a petal on top and a barb either side.

Its red Lancastrian counterpart, unswervingly believed by generations of Yorkists to be the lesser of the two blooms, comes with the barb on top, flanked by two petals.

It is the second time a building in Harrogate has got its wires crossed over the two roses.

When the town centre Imperial Hotel changed its name recently to The Yorkshire, a sign above the main door incorporated a Lancashire rose.

Passers-by pointed out the error and the sign was replaced by the Yorkshire emblem - with an apology from its Australian manager.

At the Army Foundation College, in Penny Pot Lane, officials are investigating the possibility of correcting the error, but it may not be possible because the roses are welded on to the gates.

A college spokesman said it was proud to be based in Yorkshire, but he revealed the regimental sergeant major was from Lancashire.