Penrith (Cumberland)

The Penrith Flag is a community flag proclaiming the unique identity of this Cumberland town.

The basis of this design is the medieval Seal of Penrith.

This brass seal probably dates from 1223, when Henry III granted Penrith a market charter (1223).

It disappeared during Scottish raids in the 14th century but resurfaced five centuries later during building work near Brampton church.

The seal is now in the Penrith and Eden Museum.

The saltire is a reference to St Andrew, the patron saint of the parish.

This clear link with Scotland evokes the chequered history of the region.

It lay alternately under English and Scottish rule until 1237.

Scotland claimed it until 1295 and continued to dispute it until 1603.

The choice of a red cross on a white background makes a strong graphic image. It also follows the example of a small souvenir pot made by Goss pre-1914.

The red arms of the saltire also recall the light of the traditional Penrith beacon stretching out.

Penrith Civic Society submitted the flag for registration as a traditional design realised by Philip Tibbetts, then a local resident.

It also received support from a public poll in the local newspaper.