A UNION Jack and St George’s flag were torn down from a garden inside a sheltered housing complex, over claims it was offensive.

South Essex Homes has caused uproar with residents inside Yantlet assisted living in Leigh, after the two flags were removed from a wooden arch and a washing line.

The small St George’s flag, which had blown into the garden, was perched on the arch, waiting for its owner to retrieve it.

However, another resident is said to have found the flag to be offensive. It was removed at the start of October.

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​Just last week, a resident had left their Union Jack peg bag on the washing line for others to use.

However yet again, a complainant deemed the bag to be offensive. It was removed immediately.

A 58-year-old, who lives at the complex on London Road and wished to remain anonymous, said: “What happens when it comes to the Queen’s jubilee, or the World Cup?

“Why is south Essex Homes removing it off just one complaint? It’s ridiculous.

“It’s not like everyone complained about it.

“Every resident was sent a letter by the manager asking for them to be removed.

“It’s patriotic, and one was literally just a bag. We had flags up for the Euros over the summer in our windows and balconies, and there was no issue with that.”

The assisted living complex has been hit with multiple issues in recent months.

The lift was broken for weeks on end, and youths have gathered in the stairways of the buildings, causing trouble inside and out.

Keith Evans, councillor of the Blenheim Park ward, said: “It’s a very divisive issue.

“I understand the fact that it’s a communal garden inside an assisted living complex, but it should not be torn down.”

A spokesman from south Essex Homes, said: “There has been an issue recently in respect of flags being displayed in the communal areas of Yantlet and a polite letter was sent reminding residents that no items should be left in communal areas, as they need to remain as clear as possible for fire safety reasons.”