People waving St George and Union Jack flags along a main road in Oxford have been condemned as unwanted in the city, with their behaviour drawing significant criticism.

The flags, linked to the Raise the Colours group, caused friction between local inhabitants and those taking part in the activity, most of whom do not live in Oxford.

The incident occurred during the evening commute on a busy city street at approximately 5pm on Tuesday, March 24.

A cherry picker marked with Highway Maintenance signs on its back, operated by workers wearing high-visibility gear, was stationed on both sides of the road to enable flags to be strung across the carriageway.

Ryan Bridge, named as the leader of the national Raise the Colours campaign, streamed the group’s actions live and at one stage approached, filmed and verbally challenged a member of the public who blocked his way.

During the livestream, Mr Bridge introduced himself as Ryan from Raise the Colours and stated they were live and supporting fellow patriots in Oxford. He described Oxford as insane and claimed the city was populated by people who despise that flag and their country’s flag.

According to The Mirror’s November article, the 44-year-old Mr Bridge faces an eight-year prison term in Spain for aggravated fraud and further crimes.

A woman working at the University of Oxford, who requested anonymity, observed what happened and questioned why they were illegally placing flags on a public road during busy traffic.

She described the audacity displayed as astonishing and stated she had never encountered anything comparable.

She tried to stop a police car, but the officer stated nothing could be done and drove away.

Thames Valley Police has not issued a statement about the matter.

Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds said people are entitled to display the England flag at their own home if they wish, but this was different as outsiders appeared to have inserted themselves into the Abingdon Road area, blocking traffic during busy periods.

Hinksey Park Labour Councillor Anna Railton stated the group were not welcome back in Oxford.

Oxfordshire County Council, responsible for maintaining roads, confirmed they were aware of Tuesday’s incident.

A spokesperson said they recognised strong feelings locally about the issue and its impact on communities, and that their main responsibility as the highways authority was keeping people safe, with placing or attaching flags on or near roads creating serious dangers including reduced visibility for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alongside increased risk of distraction.

Raise the Colours did not respond when contacted for comment.