John flies flag for Island design
By Jon Moreno - Thursday, January 8, 2009
FLYING THE FLAG: John Graney hoists high his winning design for the Isle of Wight's first-ever official county flag. Picture by Peter Boam.
Brading man John Graney is the proud designer, one of 350 entries sent in to the newspaper.
The 58-year-old legal adviser at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court won by just three votes, with his blue-and-white Island and sea design. Mr Graney wins £50 and a copy of the flag.
His entry, which has been registered with the international Flag Institute, will represent the Island for many years, said competition organiser Derek Bean, chairman of the Isle of Wight Flag Committee.
Mr Graney, a former Royal Navy officer, said he felt proud knowing his design would be hoisted on County Hall and become a logo for the Island.
“I’ve always been interested in flags and the design reflects the Island’s obvious maritime links,” he said.
“When I receive the flag, I will hoist it up the flagpole in my garden in celebration. I’d really like to see it on the tail fin of a hovercraft, because it is the only Island-based ferry.”
Mr Graney’s design will remain in the public domain so it can be used by residents, institutions and clubs.
Mr Graney will be presented with his prize at a flag launch next month.
Isle of Wight County Press
