The search is on for a new 'people's flag' to spread Birmingham's name far and wide and give local businesses a chance to display their pride in the city.
Deputy Lord Mayor, Coun Mike Leddy, has launched a competition to find a design which could become part of the city's identity.
Inviting entries from across Birmingham, he said: "I believe a flag for Birmingham will instil civic pride, allow Brummies to express pride in our community, celebrate our heritage and culture and raise greater recognition and awareness nationwide."
The city's civic flag is flown only from public buildings with special permission to use it rarely given but a community flag would be available for all to use.
A final shortlist of up to five designs will be selected and put to a public vote.
Alongside Coun Leddy on the judging panel will be the council's official honorary vexillologist, or flag expert, John Gale, who suggests the city’s history should be represented.
"You don't want a recent event, you should have a historical event, something that has stood the test of time," he said.
The deadline for entries is March 31, with a public vote running from May 11 until June 28.
Entry forms along with hints and design guidelines are available on the city council's website.
