THE theft of a flag from the Launceston Royal British Legion headquarters has been described as ‘despicable’, and the branch is urging whoever is responsible to come forward and apologise.

The 8ft by 4ft Union flag was displayed on the front of Edymead in Westgate Street for VJ Day, and had been due to be taken down this week.

But overnight between Sunday and Monday, August 16 and 17, the flag had been taken from the building, causing damage to some cabling in the process.

Launceston RBL?branch president Peter Rowe said: “Somebody has pulled it down. It’s absolutely despicable. We were going to take it down Tuesday or Wednesday. We purchased it and had put it up for VJ Day.”

The flag cost only around £6 to purchase, but Mr Rowe added: “That’s not the point, it’s the principle of it.”

Launceston police said the theft had caused some distress to the many veterans who attend the legion.

PCSO Laura Smith said: “We are shocked and disappointed by the theft and would appeal to anyone who may know of its whereabouts or have information as to who is responsible to contact the police.”

Anyone who knows who is responsible or can provide information that may assist police in the investigation of this incident is asked to call 101, or email [email protected]

Information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers either by calling 0800 555111 or via their online form at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online/

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week’s edition of the Post.