Marcus Pearcey, who owns more than a dozen firms across the county, claims people are cancelling bookings at his pubs, bars and restaurants after he started voicing his views on Facebook.

He said he had received threats in the last week simply for saying he is "proud to be British" and that "people should not be ashamed to be British and fly the flag".

READ MORE: Who is Marcus Pearcey? Meet the businessman buying up Norfolk's pubs

Marcus Pearcey says people are boycotting his businesses(Image: Denise Bradley)

Mr Pearcey made the comments amid tensions of the flying of flags in Norfolk.

More than 200 Union Jacks and St George Crosses were fixed to flagpoles in an area of west Norwich last week.

Those behind the initiative said their purpose was "to unite not divide" and to encourage patriotism.

However, some locals in the area have claimed they find the banners "intimidating".

There were a number of angry confrontations in the area between groups trying to take down the flags and those trying to put them up.

Mr Pearcey said he supported the flying of flags.

"I don't think there is anything wrong with it," he added. "I love this country and I want people to feel free to wave the flag.

"It's a polarised debate, but........

© Norwich Evening News