Residents of Church Road in Northwich, Cheshire, have been ordered by their Labour-run council to take down the St George's flags and England bunting they put up to support the Three Lions during the World Cup in North America. Cheshire West and Chester Council wrote to homeowners describing the display as "unlawful" and warning that it could amount to "anti-social behaviour", arguing the flags pose a "clear danger" to motorists. The dispute matters as a flashpoint over patriotism, local authority powers and public frustration, coming as similar displays appear on streets across the country ahead of a major tournament.

The flags and bunting have been strung across the street from drainpipes, lamp posts and even trees. The council has asked residents to identify who put the decorations up, but locals are refusing to comply or remove them for as long as England remain in the competition. Those quoted include 26-year-old beautician Emily Disley-Joyson, who called the order "madness", and 69-year-old retired nurse Ruth Patterson, who branded the council "bonkers" and said supporting the team lifts community spirits. England are due to play a quarter-final against Norway on the Saturday evening following the report.