ST JOHN'S church in Bromsgrove will proudly fly the flag for St George this Sunday thanks to a generous gesture by the town's ancient Court Leet.

The court, which is already supporting the church restoration appeal as one of Bailiff Jeremy Sharp's chosen charities, has bought a flag of St George and a five metre aluminium pole from which to fly it.

It was erected on the base of the spire on Tuesday in time for the official unfurling and dedication by vicar, the Rev Nigel Marns at a St George's Day service on Sunday, starting at 3pm.

The ceremony will take place after a procession comprising local scouts an guides arrives at St John's following a parade through the town.

Mr Sharp, from Bournheath, said it had come to the court's attention the church had neither flag nor pole and a decision was taken to remedy the situation.

The flag, measuring six by three feet, and the pole, was supplied by Catshill firm Up the Pole, run by Court member Mike Clements and his wife Jean.

He said the flag is manufactured from woven polyester, as laid down by the Admiralty's specifications.

Mr Sharp said: "We are very pleased to have funded the new flag and pole." The mountings have been made by Burcot Forge.

Mr Marns said it is unclear when last the church had a flag. He added it will be flown on Sundays and special occasions.

"It is with great pleasure and pride that the St George flag will be restored to the parish church on Sunday," he said.

"As a Church of England in such a prominent position it's important we fly the flag of our country and take pride in ourselves and as a nation."