Police probe after England flag draped on Westbury White Horse

Wiltshire Police have opened an investigation after red fabric was draped over the Westbury White Horse in the shape of the England flag and attached to the landmark with pegs.

The fabric was placed on the 175ft (53m) white horse on 9 September and was later removed after the site was reported to English Heritage. The charity said it had assessed the hill figure and found the pegs had caused "minimal damage".

Following English Heritage's assessment, Wiltshire Police said they had "received a report regarding minor damage being done to the horse through the use of pegs" and that enquiries were at an early stage. The force initially indicated it was not investigating the incident before issuing the updated statement.

The Westbury White Horse, carved into the chalk of a Wiltshire hillside, is thought to date to 878 AD and to commemorate King Alfred's victory over the Danes at the Battle of Ethandune. It is a scheduled monument, which means it is protected by law; deliberate damage or removal of items from such sites can be a criminal offence, and can lead to heavy fines or a prison sentence.

The appearance of the red fabric on the landmark follows the recent proliferation of St George's flags across England. Organisers and motives for the placement on the Westbury White Horse have not been confirmed, and there have been no reports of arrests.

Wiltshire Police said it was carrying out inquiries into the circumstances and the extent of any damage. English Heritage did not indicate it would carry out remedial work beyond assessing the immediate impact of the pegging. Further updates from the police or heritage authorities were expected as the investigation continues.