A STOLEN football flag has been returned to its owners after being left at the makeshift memorial to Jack Walker at Ewood Park.

The flag, which had been used by members of the official supporters' club, disappeared after the final game of last season against Manchester City.

The club believed it had been stolen by rival fans but whoever took it must have felt a pang of guilt because it was left at the ground beside the book of condolence following Mr Walker's funeral.

The flag had been donated to the supporters' club by Farleys Solicitors.

Originally it had been the largest football flag of its kind in Europe and Mr Walker had given special permission for it to be displayed in the ground during the building of the new Jack Walker stand.

Partner at Farleys and lifelong Rovers fan Paul Schofield said: "The supporters' club cut the flag down to a more manageable size, using the 'Rovers' name.

"It was passed along by the crowd at home games but disappeared after the City game at the end of the season.

"We can only think the flag was returned as a mark of respect to Mr Walker."