How do I love thee? The England national team and the Lovemark

I can’t pinpoint the exact time when the flags went up – probably close to the commemorations of the Normandy landings. But if the cross of St George emerged to acknowledge the contribution of a passing generation, the flags not only remained after the services but germinated all over our city with the advent of Euro 2004 a few days later. At first, I thought this symbolised the kind of patriotism associated with places like Portsmouth: old cities with centuries-old associations with the armed forces and the particular mentality that deeply rooted connection generates. But it seemed that this demonstration of support and fervent hope was not just confined to this city but was being replicated throughout England...