A FAMILY has upset a Royal Navy veteran by draping their unique World Cup flag from a bedroom window.
Barry Butterworth decided to support the England team in Germany by displaying the White Ensign of Her Majesty's Fleet outside his home in Hough Lane, Wombwell.
But it's only supposed to be flown from a seagoing vessel and permission is needed from the Admiralty to use it elsewhere.
Ken Birkinshaw, president of the Hoyland branch of the British Legion, served in the Royal Navy for 17 years.
He said: “It’s out of order and it’s against the tradition of the Royal Navy.” A spokesman for the Ministry of Defence told the Chronicle the flags couldn’t be bought in shops.
“It’s not breaking a law - it’s more about breaking a tradition”, he added. Mr Butterworth said he didn’t realise it would upset anyone.
“I love the flag and last put it out for Euro 2004. I get lots of comments and they all say it’s great.”
