A GIANT St George’s Cross painted on the front of his pub by a patriotic landlord has been labelled a racist symbol that makes people feel uncomfortable.
The 20ft by 20ft mural, put up by Jerry Kunkler to show support for football team, is said to send out an anti- message.
A huge St George’s Cross painted on the front of his pub by a patriotic landlord has been labelled a racist symbolCredit: SWNS
Landlord Jerry Kunkler at listed 17th century Moonrakers Inn in Pewsey, WiltsCredit: SWNS
Mr Kunkler is now facing a planning battle to keep it on the listed 17th century Moonrakers Inn in Pewsey, .
He said: “There is no way this is racism. There is an Indian restaurant in Pewsey and they fly the Bangladeshi flag with pride. That is what I am doing.”
The cross first went up for the 2016 , was whitewashed over then reappeared for the 2022
But a complaint prompted the council to insist he get planning permission.
Objector Jayne Manley quoted research showing many considered the cross a racist symbol, expressing anti-migrant sentiment.
She added: “There is a legitimate concern that it may cause some to feel uncomfortable.”
Other objectors to the St George’s Cross said it had no place on a protected listed building.
Elizabeth Strutt said: “The reason for listing buildings is to preserve structures that are of special architectural or historic interest.
“This building historically did not have a cross painted on it at the time of listing and it detracts from the nature of the facade.
“If I, as an owner of a listed house in the same conservation area, were to paint a cross on the outside of my house I have no doubt that the council would take a very dim view.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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