THE Devon flag will soon by flying proudly above Tavistock. The town council is among a number of local councils that have requested the flag from Devon County Council. The concept of the Devon flag started on BBC Devon's website and the design was voted for in an online poll. The county council has since enthusiastically supported the distinctive green, white and black flag. It is often flown at County Hall, and has become a common sight across Devon and further afield at sporting events and recently at the Last Night of the Proms. The flag emphasises the county's history, especially its Celtic roots. The green symbolises the fields of Devon, white for the sea and china clay industries and the black edge of the cross symbolises the granite mica of the moors. Tavistock's county councillor Roy Connelly said: 'Much of what is emphasised within the Devon flag is shared with the local environment and history of Tavistock. It will truly recognise the important role our beautiful market town plays within the county of Devon.' Town clerk Roger Howard said: 'It seems very fitting to publicise this visible sign of the rural identity of the ancient county of Devon at a time when reorganisation in the pattern of local government might mean quite drastic changes in the whole concept. 'We are proud to be a rural market town and the centre of gravity for our hinterland. As such, the flying of the Devon county flag will demonstrate our sense of place to all who see it.' The presentation of the flag by Devon County Council Leader Brian Greenslade to town mayor Anne Johnson takes place on Friday May 16 at 10.30am in Bedford Square.
