CHESHIRE East Council has joined others across the country in confirming it will not fly the Union Flag to mark Prince Andrew's birthday.

Traditionally, the flag has been raised to mark royal birthdays – with the Queen's second son turning 60 on February 19.

But the government this morning clarified that councils would not be asked to fulfil the request due to Prince Andrew no longer being a working royal.

A council spokesman said: “As Prince Andrew has stepped back from official duties, we will not be flying the Union Flag on this occasion.”

Northwich Guardian:

Prince Andrew, Duke of York, withdrew from public life and royal duties following an interview defending his friendship with the late Jeffrey Epstein.

Earlier this week, he deferred a promotion to Admiral in the Royal Navy.

Labour MP Wes Streeting had said that to fly the flags in his honour would be 'wholly inappropriate'.

The prince strenuously denied claims he had sex with 17-year-old Virginia Giuffre.