A pub landlord in Pewsey, Wiltshire, is under investigation by the local council after painting a large St George’s Cross on the exterior of his establishment. The complaint, which reportedly describes the pub as resembling “the headquarters of the National Front,” has prompted Wiltshire Council to look into a potential breach of planning legislation.
Jerry Kunkler, who has operated the Moonrakers Inn since 1981, originally painted the cross in 2016 in celebration of the UEFA European Championship. He repainted it in 2022 to mark the World Cup in Qatar. Kunkler expressed his patriotism as the driving force behind the decoration, stating, “I thought I was going to bring the support here – it is a sports bar.”
The complaint, which is said to have come from an anonymous local resident, has raised questions about the appropriateness of the cross, especially given its association with nationalist sentiments in some contexts. Kunkler, who is also the longest-standing councillor in Wiltshire, defended his decision, emphasizing that the pub has always been a family-friendly establishment.
Local Council Response
In response to the complaint, Kunkler stated, “I have always run a family pub. I have been here 44 years always promoting it as a family-friendly pub, all inclusive.” He added that he has always supported England in various sporting events, including the Six Nations rugby games, and has even decorated the pub for events like St George’s Day and the Queen’s Jubilee.
According to Adrian Foster, cabinet member for planning at Wiltshire Council, the Moonrakers Inn is a Grade II listed building located at 57 High Street. He noted that Listed Building Consent may be required for external redecoration if it involves a change in paint color. Foster confirmed that the council is investigating the reported changes in accordance with its planning enforcement policy.
The controversy surrounding the St George’s Cross has reignited discussions about national symbols and their implications in the UK. Kunkler expressed surprise at receiving the notification from the council, stating, “It was a bit strange to get that sort of email, but I am going to have to apply the correct way.”
As the investigation unfolds, Kunkler remains committed to his vision for the Moonrakers Inn, describing it as an “old-fashioned English supporting pub.” The establishment has also gained recognition as an inspiration for the acclaimed play Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth, further cementing its place in local culture.
With the investigation still ongoing, Kunkler’s future plans for the pub may hinge on the outcome of the council’s review. The case highlights the complex interplay between local heritage, community values, and expressions of national pride in contemporary Britain.
