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EastEnders legend Ross Kemp has reflected on what it truly means to be English - and why we 'must reclaim the flag'. The actor and quiz show believes the St George flag has been 'hijacked by high-profile bigots' in an attempt to "weaponise it against people of different ethnicities or beliefs".

Today on March 23, Morris dancers have been taking to the streets, pub-goers enjoying free promotional pints and proud English communities flying the flag of England's patron saint. But since operation raise the colours was launched last year the flag has been more divisive than ever with decorated lampposts and roundabouts as offensive.

Ross told The Mirror: "This is far from a new phenomenon - the National Front attempted the same before - yet it remains a serious concern."

We spoke to members of the public around one of England's 'most patriotic estates' this week where the overwhelming consensus was more should be done to celebrate St George's Day. Yet, the Government has ruled out to the Daily Express anyplans to make the ocassion a Bank Holiday. And if done carelessly, households can even face fines of up to £2,500 could be dished out for incorrectly raised flags.

For Ross Kemp, 61, St George's Day is a chance for the silent majority to make themselves heard. He said Thursday presents and opportunity "to declare that our flag isn't a weapon to divide us, but rather a unifying emblem of our nation and our principles".

Mr Kemp continued: "What's important is that you care about your fellow citizens, feel a sense of belonging here and embrace the values that bind us together. Fairness. Decency. Looking someone in the eye and treating them with respect. Queueing. Getting on with things, even when times are hard. Discussing the weather. Complaining about the football.

"That's the England I recognise. And it's why I admire the people who are working tirelessly to unite communities this Saint George's Day. I admire the church and mosque coming together in Birmingham to march side by side, to celebrate their solidarity and dedication to a shared England."

He added: "I'm particularly fond of the massive event organised for Gravesend spearheaded by schoolchildren. The faith leaders' gathering in London aimed at uniting their diverse communities on our patron Saint's day.

"There's an enormous amount taking place, and it is these individuals who represent the genuine patriots of England. Because what they're achieving is constructing our nation, fortifying it, and imbuing the flag with significance rather than merely brandishing it."

*Ross Kemp is an ambassador for the Together Coalition