If you enjoy a flash of colour and flourish of style then don’t miss Moretonhampstead’s Flag Festival.

For two weeks the town will flaunt a fabulous array of hand-made flags showing off all manner of things local: flora and fauna, fads, inventions, shops, spaces, services, curiosities, clubs, pubs and more. It’s worth taking the time to wander the streets and appreciate these extraordinary works of art.

 Eight years ago, local artists Veronica Gould and Andrea Foxwell began Moreton’s flag making workshops. Materials were recycled tent fabric, hot air balloon off-cuts, unrivalled powers of persuasion, an odd assortment of sewing machines, and most importantly, curious, willing and enthusiastic helpers. Now with over 140 flags (and growing), decent sewing machines and the wholehearted support of the town, this spectacular collection brings untold delight. Summer visitors crossing the moor stop and ask “What are the flags for?” A good question.

They are not ‘for’ anything, other than ‘us’ and the delight of showing that art can be made by ordinary people from what is thrown away and that huge satisfaction is to be had from committed people gathering to make, mend, share, encourage and transform.