How did we end up with it?

❚ The idea for a Wellington flag was first raised in 1957, and was to feature the coat of arms.

❚ A competition was held, but the designs were considered either too detailed or unsuitable. Another was held in 1958, but the issue became so contentious that no decision could be reached.

❚ The council asked London’s College of Arms to design a flag without the ‘‘impractical’’ coat of arms.

❚ In December 1962, the council approved the design of a black cross on a gold background, with the badge of a ship with a dolphin ‘‘naiant’’ – or swimming horizontally – on its sail.

❚ The first orders for the new flag were made in preparation for the royal visit of 1963.