A council worker was not removing flags in Salford this weekend, despite the claims being shared online in a viral video seen by millions of people.
The clip was posted on social media on Friday and quickly spread, racking up huge numbers of viewers and sparking debate over the weekend.
A worker wearing a high-vis jacket was seen in the footage climbing a ladder up a post on which a British flag was attached, based on High Street in Walkden.
During the video, a second man who is standing at the bottom of the ladder appears to detach the worker’s safety strap which is anchoring the ladder to the post before appearing to drag the ladder away, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The worker can be seen clinging onto the post before jumping down to the ground.
It was claimed in some posts online that the man wearing the high-vis vest was a ‘council worker’ who was trying to ‘take down’ the flag from the post.
But the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports that the situation was not as it has been portrayed by some online.
In a statement Salford council said: “The person shown in the video is a sub-contractor to the council and contrary to social media posts, was working on camera equipment.
“We have previously stated we are not removing flags and absolutely do not condone any violent behaviour or verbal abuse.
“Threatening or intimidating behaviour towards residents and workers in Salford is unacceptable and we appeal to people in Salford to treat each other with respect.
“Anyone with information can contact GMP on 101.”
A member of the public, who was not directly involved in the incident, has reported it to Greater Manchester Police.
Over the weekend, the council reiterated its stance online that ‘flags will not be routinely taken down’ unless they pose a safety risk or constitute an offence, such as criminal damage.
Salford’s deputy mayor Jack Youd, who also serves as a councillor in Walkden North, took to social media to comment on the incident.
He stated: “The assault on a man trying to go about his job yesterday is inexcusable.
“He wasn’t there to remove flags, but sadly people are using the video to spread misinformation and to incite attacks on council workers and ordinary men in hi viz trying to do their jobs in Salford.”
Flags have been displayed in public spaces across many parts of Salford, as part of a nationwide campaign known as ‘Operation Raise the Colours’.
This campaign has also seen roundabouts adorned with the cross of Saint George, and England flags affixed to public areas such as benches.
