A WIDOW’S plans to get England’s Three Lions on her footie-mad hubby’s headstone have been blocked as she needs the King’s permission.
Tracy Bilclough promised John, who died in 2020 aged 60, the emblem would mark his grave.
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But a Church of England judge refused as the “stylized heraldic lions” belong to the Crown and they had to be removed from the gravestone in Stretton-on-Dunsmore, Warks.
Retired carer Tracy, 63, has written to King Charles twice asking for his permission.
Just two rows back from John’s grave is a headstone incorporating a Fleur de Lis, another heraldic symbol but one associated with the French royal family.
Another nearby grave featured a thistle emblem, symbolising Scotland.
She said: “It just seems wrong that you can have a symbol of France or any other country you like but not one of England in England.”
She added: “I feel bad for John. It feels like he’s been betrayed by the country he loved.
“When I was forced to have the Three Lions sanded off, I cried my eyes out.”
The judge told Tracy in his ruling that the lions are part of the Royal Arms of England.
He added: “Unfortunately, all uses must be duly authorised.”
Tracy has a year to appeal or get the King’s consent.
She added: “It’s so disappointing to hear nothing back from the King.”