Drivers and pedestrians on Ham Drive have been left chuckling after Plymouth City Council’s latest clean-up job went hilariously wrong.
Bold red St George’s Cross flags were painted across two roundabouts overnight.
By early morning, highways workers had been sent out with cans of white spray paint in an attempt to erase the patriotic symbols.
The cover up has failed. Instead of a clean slate, the red crosses continue to shine through like stubborn graffiti, leaving two ghostly flags that are impossible to miss.
Locals were quick to mock the attempt. One passer-by told Plymouth Plus:
“They tried to hide the St George’s Cross but now it just looks like the council has drawn a giant England ghost on the road. Everyone can still see it and it actually makes the roundabout safer because drivers finally notice it.”
Plymouth City Council, however, insists it cannot allow markings on the highway. In a statement issued today, it said:
"To keep everyone safe, we need to remove any unauthorised flags or markings placed on the highway. We ask residents to refrain from placing flags or painting symbols on public roads or roundabouts.
"Where installations are found to be unsafe or unlawful, they may be removed and could result in enforcement action, including fines."
Officials also stressed that while Plymouth is a proud and patriotic city, residents are reminded that flags and paint should only be displayed on private property.
In relation to this particular episode, a Plymouth City Council spokesperson told Plymouth Plus:
“As soon as we were made aware of the damage to the roundabout markings on Ham Drive steps were taken to make the roundabouts safe as soon as possible, without disrupting traffic.
"This was a short-term measure to minimise the visual impact of the red lines without putting staff in danger on a busy road. We have already made arrangements for permanent repairs to be carried out tonight, when there is less traffic but this will still require a temporary road closure.”
Despite the warning, Ham Drive’s roundabouts now stand as a visible reminder of a clean-up gone wrong.
Instead of wiping away the crosses, Plymouth City Council has turned them into faint but striking shadows, with drivers spotting the red lines glowing beneath the white spray paint.
For many in the city, it is a comedy of errors. A simple paint job has turned into a public talking point, and some believe the roundabouts are now more noticeable than ever.
Devon and Cornwall Police have been contacted for comment.
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