Flag flying by binmen is banned

Patriotic binmen in the Black Country have been banned from flying St George's Cross flags during the World Cup - amid health and safety fears, it was revealed today.

Refuse collectors in Wolverhampton have reportedly been forbidden from showing their support for England by attaching the red and white flag to their wagons during the tournament. Waste contractor Enterprise has told Wolverhampton Council workers they face losing their jobs if they adorn their wagons with the nation's colours, it is claimed.

Bosses at the firm, which employs 13,000 people nationwide, fear the patriotic flags could black drivers' views of the road and put pedestrians at risk.

Enterprise has provided domestic and trade rubbish collection and grounds maintenance for the city since 2005.

The company has Wolverhampton branches at Kingswood Business Park, Crown Street, Hickman Avenue, Park Road West, Culwell Street, Lanesfield and Bushbury.

Spokeswoman Louise Welsh said: "Enterprise has issued a directive across its local government contracts that no decoration is permitted in any company vehicles due to concerns over potential health and safety implications of driver visibility and pedestrian safety."

One furious worker, who did not wish to be named, said today: "We are all football fans and cannot wait for the World Cup this summer.

"To be told we are at risk of being sacked if we put anything in our cabs is absolutely ridiculous."

The flag ban affects staff in Wolverhampton, Liverpool, Manchester, Solihull, Gloucester, Selby and London.

By Laura Stuart-Cook