Jesus flag banned for 'advertising Christianity'

Vicar Mark Binney has been banned from flying a flag of Jesus Christ outside his church because council officials reckon it advertises Christianity.

Rev Binney was threatened with a £1,000 fine as he did not receive planning permission to fly the pink flag at St Andrew's Church in Evesham, Worcestershire.

The 52-year-old had hoisted it up a 30ft pole outside the church to celebrate Holy Week at Easter, prompting a complaint from the public which led the council to take action.



He said he reckons the "appalling" move is part of a gradual erosion of Christianity in the UK.

"You see blatant advertising everywhere, especially at election time, where lots of people are completely flouting the law," the vicar added.

"But we can't display a flag for one week – the most holy week of the Christian year."