What is the flag of England?
The flag of England is the St George's Cross, a red cross on a white background. It represents St George, the patron saint of England, and has been used as an English symbol since the Middle Ages.
The red cross was used by English soldiers during the Crusades, and it became associated with St George, a soldier saint said to have slain a dragon.
The St George's Cross forms part of the Union Jack, the flag of the United Kingdom, combined with the crosses of St Andrew for Scotland and St Patrick for Ireland.
When the flag is flown
The England flag is especially popular during major football and rugby tournaments, when fans hang it from houses, cars and pubs. It is also flown on St George's Day, 23 April.
Some churches in England fly the St George's Cross, as it is the flag of the Church of England. The City of London also uses the cross on its coat of arms.
For many years the flag was used less than the Union Jack, but its popularity grew from the 1990s, particularly during Euro 96, the football tournament held in England. Today it is a familiar sight at sporting events.