MAY I take this opportunity to echo the sentiments of Mrs Merrick (Your Letters, June 21) regarding the flying of flags.

I too was struck with the overwhelming patriotism of the Americans on a recent visit to the USA. Every other house was adorned with their national flag. I was moved to purchase our own Union Flag to display in our hired car for the duration of our visit.

Recent events such as our dear Queen's Jubilee and of course our unexpectedly long involvement in the World Cup has roused in us a sense of pride and patriotism unrivalled in recent times. Does it have to end there?

Our history and our heritage is being dismantled piece by piece by politically-correct government and councils to a point where we, as English people, have little or no identity in this 'new Britain'.

We must not be ashamed to be English, for it is our very Englishness that allows us to embrace with open arms differing cultures and beliefs. It is our tolerance and openness as a people that has made these treasured islands what they are today.

Let us not forget our history, our identity. The flag of St George is a symbol of our strengths and our achievements worldwide. While the government is intent on splitting up our nation and selling the family silver to the Europeans we have found a new born pride in our great country.

Yes, I flew the flag for our boys in Japan and Korea, but now I continue to fly it because I am proud to be English and I want everyone to know it!

Alan Bennett, School Cottages, The Common, Wellington Heath.