DECORATIVE flags signalling the start of its festival season have appeared across a Furness town.

The Ulverston Flag Fortnight has officially launched in the centre, seeing dozens of beautifully coloured flags flapping from buildings.

Businesses, shops and local landmarks all have their own flag, decorated with emblems which express what they do.

A flag featuring images of bags and shoes flies above clothes shop, Pure, while another flag containing symbols of sweets has been raised above Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe.

The festival, which takes place annually, marks the launch of Ulverston’s world-famous festival season.

Shop assistant at Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, Pauline Jones, thinks the festival is a perfect way to brighten up Ulverston’s streets.

“I think it really brightens up the town," she said. “It’s a lovely thing to do which really brings the town together and shows the community in a fantastic light.

“We designed sweets for our flag to represent the shop.”

Michele Heald, who is manager of coffee shop, Samova, loves how distinct the flags are to each shop.

“Whoever designs the flags are amazing," she said. “I think it really brightens up the town.I think it’s lovely how each flag represents something different for each shop.

“It really gives a nice personal touch to the various shops in Ulverston.”

Pure shop manager Jean Chadwick said: “We designed our own flag using symbols of accessories and clothes. It’s really lovely and bright and makes people want to visit the town.

“They have so many festivals here which is great for bringing people into the town.”

The flags will be displayed across Ulverston until Saturday May 11.

Ulverston’s next town festival will be Printfest between May 4 and 5.