Lowe - our flag is proud and inclusive

"Proud and inclusive.....OH YES!

The words of Dudley Labour councillor Pete Lowe who has launched a staunch defence of his beloved Black Country flag in the wake of recent criticism from Labour MP Eleanor Smith.

Mr Lowe, who contested the Stourbridge seat for Labour in the General Election, says he loves the flag, which he describes as inclusive and representative of the community.

He has extended an offer he first made two years ago to 'educate' those who misunderstand the flag

In a post on Facebook the former Dudley Council leader wrote: "When we first launched it, many accused me of using it for political ends.

"I stated then that it was nothing to do with party politics. I loved the flag as it described my understanding of my community.

"A few years on, members of all political parties, and non are proud to have the flag on display....and quite rightly so...it is all of ours!!"

He added: "The Black Country flag has gone from obscurity to the best selling regional flag in the country thanks to those just as committed and proud of our community as I am.

"The Black Country flag doesn't just depict our proud heritage....it gives us a platform to create a positive future....proud of our past....forging our future!!

"The Black Country flag has created unity where once there was fragmentation. Anyone who questions this should be offered our education and support so that they too can enjoy our bostin', proud history!"

Mr Lowe went on to point out that the flag had been seen at Glastonbury, Mount Everest, and 'flew longer in the World Cup in Brazil than the England football team did."