Diamond Jubilee: Flag From Queen's Coronation Found In Attic In Bath

Queen's Coronation Flag Found In Attic Forms Centrepiece of Jubilee Display

A St George's Cross flag last flown on the Queen's coronation will take pride of place in Diamond Jubilee celebrations today after being discovered in the attic of a furniture store.

Silcox Son & Wicks has been trading from its premises in Bath for more than 100 years and is referred to as an Aladdin's cave with gems around every corner.

But when Charlie Wicks, son of the store owner Steve Wicks, was rummaging around in the attic, he was shocked by what he found.

The massive flag has lain undiscovered in an attic for 60 years

The 20ft by 10ft flag was collected by his grandfather Dennis Wicks during the war while he was serving in the Royal Navy.

It was then hung outside the shop along with five others in 1953 to celebrate the Queen's coronation.

The historic flag has now been hoisted outside the shop in Kingsmead Square as part of their Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

"It was an amazing find," Steve Wicks said.

"I had no idea they were still up there after all these years.

"After nearly 60 years in the attic it is not in the best condition but it has huge symbolic and sentimental value to us and I think dad would have been very proud.

"We have recovered four of the six original flags, including a magnificent merchant navy red ensign and the St George's Cross.

"We have a picture of the flags in situ in 1953 and I have always thought they looked magnificent.

Steve (left) and Charlie with flags outside Silcox Son & Wicks in Bath

"So to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee we have managed to hoist three of the flags including the largest St George's flag on the front of the building.

"It took a bit of an effort and I don't know how my dad must have done it all those years ago."

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