Guernsey Flag - Bailiwick of (British Crown Dependency)

Guernsey and the other Channel Islands are the last remnants of the medieval Dukedom of Normandy, which held sway in both France and England. They were also the only British soil occupied by German troops in World War II. Guernsey is a British crown dependency, but is not part of the UK nor a British Colony. The UK Government is however constitutionally responsible for the islands’ defense and international representation.

The flag of the Bailiwick of Guernsey was adopted in 1985. It consists of a red St. George’s Cross with an gold cross laid over it. The 1985 change occurred to remove any confusion that may have occurred at international sporting events when England and Guernsey would compete under the same flag. The gold cross is symbolic of Duke William of Normandy, who legends state carried a cross on personal standard in the Battle of Hastings, given to him by Pope Alexander II. A red ensign with the gold cross in the fly is used as civil ensign.