The coat of arms, which date to the early nineteenth century, features Saint Ursula holding a flaming gold oil lamp and surrounded by a further eleven lamps, which represent her 11,000 virgin followers.

[2] The motto present on the flag reads Vigilate, which translated from Latin is be watchful.

The flag is flown from sunrise to sunset and all government buildings are encouraged to fly it.

When a flag is to be disposed of, it must be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning in private with respect.

The flag was authorised in 2001 and Section 70 of the British Virgin Islands Merchant Shipping Act, 2001 reads: The blue ensign shall only be used on vessels which belong to or are in the service of the government.