Maryhill (Lanarkshire)

James Hodgson’s modern take on a traditional tricolour represents a narrow boat on the Forth & Clyde Canal.

The canal crosses the river Kelvin at Maryhill on the spectacular Kelvin Aqueduct (1787-90), whose opening led to the founding of the town.

Two blue bands represent the canal and the river Kelvin. Red alludes to community passion, while black symbolises Maryhill’s industrial past. Maryhill Football Club also uses red and black as its sporting colours.

In addition the flag references the boat-on-aqueduct motif of the unofficial Maryhill ‘coat of arms’ (1885).

Maryhill Burgh Halls organised a year-long contest to choose the winning flag, involving hundreds of individuals, schools and community groups.

A panel including Flag Institute and Lyon Court experts then picked a shortlist of five to put to public vote.

Actress Jane McCarry was also among the judges. ‘It has been a privilege being involved in such a great community project,’ she commented. ‘So many fantastic flags, it was an absolute joy to be on the judging panel. Good luck to all the finalists!’

The winning flag was raised for the first time on 2 October 2021 as part of Maryhill’s annual Gala Day celebrations.