Ryan Bridge, the founder of the flag-display group Raise the Colours, has been charged with 14 offences, including common assault, according to Thames Valley Police. The charges relate to alleged incidents in Oxfordshire between 31 January and 31 March 2026.
Details of the charges
Bridge, 45, from Blackwell, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, faces a range of charges, including seven counts of using threatening words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress, and three counts of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of, or provoke, unlawful violence. He also faces two counts of racially aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress, one count of racially aggravated fear of violence, and one count of common assault.
The charges were confirmed by Thames Valley Police, which said a file was prepared and submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) following a thorough review of evidence, including witness accounts and available footage. Bridge is due to appear at Oxfordshire Magistrates’ Court on 3 November.
Background and context
Bridge has been a prominent figure in Birmingham for over a year, leading Raise the Colours in placing Union Jack and St George's Cross flags on lampposts across the city and beyond. The group’s activities have drawn attention, and in July, Oxfordshire County Council was granted a High Court injunction to stop people placing flags near highways.
Birmingham City Council is also seeking an injunction to prevent anyone putting up unauthorised attachments, including flags, banners and signage, on highways. The council is expected to present its case on Tuesday.
Next steps
Bridge’s court appearance on 3 November will be the next stage in the legal process. The outcome of the case will determine the consequences of the alleged offences. The police and CPS have completed their review, and the matter now rests with the court.
