"Millions of people in our islands are patriotic and deeply attached to the flags of their home nations and the United Kingdom.
"In less fractious times, seeing your flag normally instils feelings of belonging and pride and I have no doubt that many of the people currently attaching flags to lamp posts and street furniture share our pride in being British.
"It is clear, however, that in some places, the appearance of flags is making some communities feel deliberately targeted and intimidated. That may or may not be the intention of those putting the flags up but it is clearly creating anxiety and potential flashpoints.
"I would look to politicians and community leaders to aim to lower the temperature and not fuel further polarisation by playing into the hands of those seeking to create division and unrest.
"Local authorities have reported that their staff and contractors have been abused and threatened when removing flags from council property - mainly for safety reasons and to prevent potential breaches of the peace.
"Whilst it is not the responsibility of Sussex Police to remove flags, I do expect officers to uphold the law. The Chief Constable has also reassured me that Sussex Police will not tolerate violent, abusive behaviour or attempts to provoke confrontation.
Read more in The Argus here: Sussex PCC Katy Bourne urges calm amid rising flag tensions across the county
