Last modified: 2015-05-17 by rob raeside
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![[Banner of arms of Roehampton University]](../images/g/gb-eguil.jpg)
image located by Rob Raeside, 2 March 2015
According to Get Surrey, a new flag has been hoisted for Guildford:
http://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/new-flag-embraces-guildfords-history-8744849.
A new flag for Guildford has been revealed in recognition of the area's
history. The flag features the castle on a black background with a gold border
and will be displayed at civic events. It has already been raised on the council
offices' flag pole.
Councillor Matt Furniss suggested the introduction of
a new flag in July last year, following the announcement that the town would
host the national celebrations for this summer's Armed Forces Day. Cllr Furniss
said: "Having a flag is all about local pride and a nice piece of history on
show for everyone. We searched for our old flag but presumed it must be lost so
from there went through Guildford's history about what should appear on the new
flag."
Graphic designer Graham Foster put his usual work for the planning
department on hold and took to his computer software to create a modern looking
flag with characteristics of the area's history. Mr Foster was aided by
historian, and the council's honorary remembrancer, Matthew Alexander, who used
historical items and landmarks, as well as images on previously used flags, to
create the new version.
Mr Alexander said: "In my mind this is a very
successful way in continuing Guildford's ancient tradition into the present day.
The main shot of the design is the castle and it has got the royal coat of arms
on it to emphasise that it is the only royal castle in Surrey. It is flanked by
two wool packs to remind people of Guildford that it was originally the wool
trade which made the town prosperous. The wavy blue and white lines underneath
are the ford then there are two gold roses on the castle and we presume that is
a Tudor rose which was used to mark the town allegiance when the Tudors took to
the throne."
The golden lion and key featured on the town's coat of arms
from 1488, and the Cornish chuff appears at the bottom of the flag is in
recognition of the Onslow family who held sway over many centuries at Clandon
Park.
Rob Raeside, March 2015