THERE was no St George’s flag flying above Accrington Police Station yesterday — with the force citing health and safety concerns for the decision.

The pole above the Manchester Road building remained flag-less while the St George’s cross flew at all other public buildings in the area.

The police station is set to be closed by Lancashire Cons-tabulary who have announced plans from the crumbling Grade II listed building into a new modern facility.

And a police spokesman said a decision was made that it would not be safe to send someone on to the roof.

In previous years the police station has flown the St George’s flag.

Clayton-le-Moors man Simon Boardman who runs an MOT testing station on nearby Grange Lane said he was stunned.

He said: “They always fly the flag over that building on St George’s Day. I thought it was an oversight, but when I called the police they said they couldn't erect a flag there because of health and safety.

“I can’t really see any good reason why the flag should not be flown in such a prominent place in the town. It really isn’t good enough”.

Opposition leader of Hyndburn Council Peter Britcliffe said: “Of course, it is the day of our patron saint and you would expect the flag to be flown on all prominent buildings.

“I find it surprising. The police need to show a bit of patriotism.”

Leader of the council Miles Parkinson said: “We are proud in the borough to fly the St George's Flag on St George’s Day on all council buildings and flags were being flown in town centre celebrations over the weekend too.”

A spokesman for the police said: “It is no secret that the current Accrington Police Station is not really fit for purpose.

“And it was felt inappropriate to ask a member of staff to go on to the roof to put the flag up for one day.

"When we move to the new site, wherever that may be, we will ensure that we are able to display the flag to mark occasions like St George’s Day.”