St George’s flag appears on Kilburn White Horse in North York Moors

A St George’s flag appeared on the Kilburn White Horse in the North York Moors National Park, prompting a police investigation.

A cross, thought to be created from red fabric, was placed on the famous landmark dating back to 1857 on Tuesday, North Yorkshire Police said.

Forestry England, which manages the site, said it was “working closely with the police to try and find who did the damage to this important asset of local and cultural heritage”.

The force confirmed it had received a report of criminal damage at about 14:00 BST and asked for those with information to come forward.

A Forestry England spokesperson added: “We are aware of the symbol that has appeared on the White Horse at Kilburn.

“Our heritage specialists are assessing the impact this has had on the horse’s condition and are working on a plan to restore it.”

Earlier on Tuesday, the Westbury White Horse in Wiltshire was also temporarily turned into a St George’s flag with red fabric.

Forestry England signage tells visitors to keep off the White Horse “to stay safe and prevent damage”.

“It has a loose surface on very steep ground,” they read.

The horse, created by local school master John Hodgson, measures about 97m (318ft) long and 67m (220ft) high.

It is Britain’s largest white horse by surface area and is the most northerly of the country’s chalk figures, according to the Kilburn White Horse Association.

A force spokesperson said: “If anyone has information about the damage, please call North Yorkshire Police on 101.”