War veterans outraged over 'despicable' Union flag theft just weeks after it was raised at Redcar club

Callous crooks snatch Union flag honouring war dead from Coatham Road Social Club, home of the Redcar branch of the Royal British Legion

War veterans have been angered by the “despicable” theft of a Union flag just weeks after it was raised at a Redcar club.

The flag had only been flying at Coatham Road Social Club, home of the Redcar branch of the Royal British Legion, for two weeks when thieves stole it.

Eric Howden, branch chairman, said it “beggars belief” that anybody could do such a thing, particularly given this year’s anniversaries.

He said: “I am disgusted. It really bugs me that people would stoop so low to steal a Union flag, especially this year.

“It is the 100th anniversary of the commencement of the First World War, the 75th anniversary of the start of the Second World War and the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

“We have got so much going on this year in the town we thought we would put a new flag up.”

He said the old flag was getting “rather discoloured and untidy”.

A member whose late husband had been a strong supporter of the Legion at Redcar offered to help buy a new one.

Kath Dowson, whose husband Alf was an ex-Green Howard, met most of the cost and the flag was proudly unveiled to mark such a memorable year.

“Then low and behold two weeks later somebody goes and steals it,” said Eric.

He said it happened between Sunday, April 6, and Tuesday, April 8, when somebody lowered the flag, cut the rope and stole it.

Eric said: “I know what I would like to do with the person who did it. I would hoist them up the flagpole and leave them there.”

He said they were concerned about buying a new flag, fearing that this too would be stolen.

“We are looking at purchasing a completely new pole where the rope runs inside but our finances are somewhat restricted.”

A police spokeswoman said: “To steal such an item is despicable since people must have known the significance of the flag being flown at the home of the British Legion Club in Redcar during the centenary of the First World War.

“We would urge anyone with information to contact Cleveland Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”