Pirate FM flies the Cornish Olympic flag

The Cornish flag can be flown at the Olympics, thanks to Pirate FM.

Spectators can only wave flags from participating countries, along with those of England, Scotland and Wales. But after Pirate FM intervened organisers say they will make an exception for the flag of St Piran.

After hearing about its importance, heritage and the proud tradition that it represents in the Duchy a spokesperson for LOCOG told the radio station: “It shouldn’t be a problem.”

Supporters will be able to cheer on members of Team GB, including competitors from Cornwall, so long as the flag is not bigger than 2m x 1m, the same rule which is applied to all other flags. Organisers say this is to ensure that the view of other members of the crowd is not interrupted.

Earlier this year during the jubilee celebrations the Queen’s barge flew the Cornish flag, thanks to a Cornishman being involved in its preparation. Olympic fans in Redruth told the station: “The Olympics are where people express their nationality and support their teams. Why shouldn’t the Cornish wave their flags if there is a Cornish athlete out there?”

Another added: “Certainly with the sailing it would be nice to see it.” Ben Ainslie is one of the Duchy’s brightest medal hopes, having secured three gold medals in the past.

Pirate FM’s newly appointed Programme Controller Neil Caddy said: “We are looking forward to cheering on Cornish competitors including Helen Glover, Wendy Houvenaghel and of course Ben Ainslie. We’re pleased that we will be able to do it under the banner of the St Piran’s flag – recognised by Cornish people the world over. We’ll be looking out for it in the crowds over the coming weeks.”

Cornish campaigner and author Mike Chappell said: “I was elated quite honestly. I think this is a real success for the Duchy of Cornwall and for all of us that recognise that the flag of St Piran has been adopted as something that is very close to our hearts. It is a Cornish icon really.

“It is our flag and it will be a great day to see those that are from Cornwall participating in the Olympics to be able to wave their St Piran’s flags with pride.”