Stationers offer up free Black Country gear
A city stationers is offering free Black Country flag themed merchandise in the wake of criticism of the region's flag.
Oxley Stationers & Printers, based on Three Tuns Parade, Wolverhampton, put together dozens of badges, keyrings, coasters and other items for people pick up for free in support of the flag.
The give away was launched following Wolverhampton South West MP Eleanor Smith's comments that the flag had 'racist connotations'.
The managing director of the store, Carlo Ropos said: "When I first heard about the MP's comments I was so annoyed.
"I thought, we have to do something, so we decided to decorate the store.
"Then the story got bigger and bigger and we posted on Facebook about how proud we are of the flag and its heritage.
"We printed leaflets about the history of the flag and the Gracie Sheppard who designed it 2012 as part of a public competition.
"Then we thought why not go one step further and offer people the chance to get Black Country flag merchandise to show how they support it."
The store started its free give away of the items on Tuesday. So far it has made 20 t-shirts, 150 keyrings, 50 coasters, 30 badges and 50 stickers.
Mr Ropos continued: "We just want people to think positively about the region and avoid this row. The Black Country has so much to be proud of and we should all join together to recognise this."
For more information visit http://www.o-s-p.co.uk/ or call 01902 788870.
