Alliance Coleraine Councillor Yvonne Boyle has called for those behind the flags supporting ‘Soldier F’ which have appeared across the Causeway area to remove them.

The local Councillor said the banners – one of which is in a dangerous position for traffic in Coleraine – are not an appropriate way to express tensions over legacy and identity issues.

“This banner creates a chill factor for many who live, work or visit our area and want it to be shared, welcoming and open to all,” she said.

“We need political courage to continue to acknowledge and address the varying painful narratives in our area, not misuse regimental emblems in a game of ‘offence and counter offence’.

“I have already been in touch with the PSNI Area Commander, the Chief Executive of the Council and have also queried if the traffic police should assess the situation, due to one of the banners being located close to a level crossing and busy junction.

“Abusing flags and regimental insignia in this way is completely unacceptable. I call on those who put the banner up to remove it immediately.”