An ex-RAF regiment soldier, keen to keep the Falkland Islands British, raised six national flags to mark the 30th anniversary of the conflict.

Derek Sturdy, of Knights Park, Kingston, flew the flags in protest against Argentine claims over the islands and lowered the flags at noon for one hour to half-mast, in remembrance of those who fought in the 1982 conflict.

The flags were flown above his workshop in Twickenham.

He said: “All too often the papers show celebs showing their support against Britain maintaining these islands.

“I don’t have any friends or family in the Falkland Islands, but to me we are all British and in my world that counts for a lot – regardless of colour or religion.

“My flags are not just a protest, but to honour all those service personnel that fought in defence of our sovereignty – for those who have fallen and for those who still remember their service.”

The Falkland Islands are situated off the coast of Argentina and, although it has been heavily disputed, British rule over the islands was thought to have begun as far back as the 17th century.

Mr Sturdy said: “I have had so many comments and all positive – first they ask about the flags and when I tell them it is to honour the Falklands I get a fantastic response – not one person has complained.”