IT’S the new symbol of Southampton, set to proudly represent the city for years to come.

Yesterday, the city’s new flag was finally flown for the first time by its eight-year-old creator, Yihuan Han.

The Portswood Primary school student raised his design outside the Civic Centre, accompanied by Mayor of Southampton, councillor Les Harris.

Yihuan said: “It was really nerve racking, but exciting.

Asked what it was like to see his design raised for the first time, he added: “I’m quite proud”.

It comes after the eight-year-old won a flag competition, organised by Southampton City Council.

Yihuan’s design beat over 500 entries from school children across Southampton.

The six finalists (pictured) were then put to a public vote by Southampton residents, of which 600 entered through the Daily Echo.