The assertion that the Union Flag on the fishing boat at Poole Quay was being flown upside down is a sign of distress is inaccurate (Daily Echo, November 18).

A British registered vessel flies the Red Ensign, most eye catching when flown wrongly.

The likelihood of most people noticing the Union Flag upside down is quite remote – indeed in the recent past the Ministry of Defence were caught out when they got it wrong.

Don Hill, ( Ancient Mariner) address supplied