ERIC PICKLES, Secretary of State for Communities, raised the Sussex flag outside of his department’s headquarters in Westminster on Monday.

He flew the county flag to mark Sussex Day.

Mr Pickles said: “We celebrate Sussex, one of the Britain’s most ancient kingdoms.

“Our historic counties have deep roots in the United Kingdom’s cherished identity.

“Whatever one’s class, colour or creed we want to send a strong signal – we are stronger as a society when we celebrate the ties that bind us together.”

Sussex Day marks the feast day of Saint Richard of Chichester, who was Sussex’s patron saint.

It is believed miracles were created at Richard’s tomb in Chichester Cathedral, which was a popular place of pilgrimage.

Brady Ells of the Sussex Association, said: “We are extremely proud that the Martlets of Sussex will once again be flown in the capital to mark our county day in the seventh year of Sussex day and the third year of the Sussex flag, both of which have gained ever more popularity.”

The motto of Sussex is “We wunt be druv”, which means “We will not be pushed around.”