Ryan Bridge, the founder of Raise the Colours campaign, was recently apprehended in Oxfordshire on suspicion of racially-aggravated offenses, as reported today. The 44-year-old, known for adorning lampposts nationwide with the cross of St George and Union flags, was taken into custody for allegedly causing racially and religiously aggravated harassment, alarm, or distress. Bridge, hailing from Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, co-founded Raise the Colours with Elliott Stanley, citing “patriotic” motivations.
Thames Valley Police officials arrested him in connection with incidents of public order offenses in Oxford, as detailed in a Guardian report. Footage circulated by Raise the Colours captured Bridge being confronted by officers against a van.
During the incident, Bridge can be heard on the video telling officers not to push him, asserting his cooperation, and inquiring about the reasons for his arrest while directing the camera towards himself. As a result of these events, Raise the Colours received a legal injunction prohibiting the installation of flags in Oxfordshire.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police stated that following reports of public order offenses on Abingdon Road, Oxford, a 44-year-old individual from Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, was arrested on suspicion of racially and religiously aggravated harassment, alarm, or distress, and has since been released on police bail.
In response to the persistent placement of flags by Raise the Colours in Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire County Council issued a formal legal notice demanding cessation of this activity. Cllr Liz Leffman expressed concern over the impact of these actions on community cohesion and safety, emphasizing the need to take decisive measures to safeguard residents and promote inclusivity in public spaces.
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