Halesowen’S new flag is flying high after an official unveiling ceremony in the town centre.

The winning entry in a recent flag competition was hoisted above the town for the first time last week.

Halesowen College student Reece O’Toole brought together emblems of Halesowen’s industrial past to design his flag.

Phil Coyne, assistant director for economic regeneration and transportation, said: “The standard of entries for the competition was extremely high and Halesowen area committee had a difficult job picking a winner.

“It’s really good to see young people taking an interest in their town’s heritage and I’d like to commend Reece for his innovative design.”

He added: “I hope that residents and visitors to the town will take note of and appreciate the flag and the local identity and pride which it represents.”

All the other 14 entrants into the flag competition were invited to the unveiling ceremony and given a certificate of thanks.

Paul Bridgewater, vice principal at Halesowen College, said: “We are delighted that Reece’s work has been recognised in this way. He is an extremely creative student and put a lot of work into his design.

“Reece’s inspiration came from traditional symbols and the coat of arms for Halesowen, he also wanted to represent the steel and iron industry in his design. He has created a flag which reflects the town’s history and culture but one that also looks to the future.

The flag is now flying at the flag pole, Bull Ring, just off Great Cornbow and Birmingham Street.