Newcastle United fan group Wor Flags issues heartfelt message after supporter misunderstanding

Newcastle United fan group Wor Flags, who are behind the emotive displays before kick-off at St. James' Park, has issued a heartfelt message clearing up confusion amongst supporters.

The black and white flags have become a staple at Newcastle home games and are the product of Wor Flags' hard work and supporter donations.

The flags await fans at their seats before matches at St. James' Park and spectators are asked to leave the standards behind after the game so Wor Flags can prepare for the next fixture.

The group have also used their flags at important Geordie events - such as Sam Fender's sold-out shows at the Utilita Arena last week.

After United's Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanders on Friday night, images emerged online of some Newcastle fans who appeared to have carried a number of flags out of the ground.

It is not known whether it was a misunderstanding or an attempt to take the flags home, but it prompted an outpouring of fans demanding action online.

Some fans returned the flags immediately once made aware they were funded by fans and others left them by the stadium the next day.

Today, Wor Flags issued a calming plea to bring an end to the situation and clarify how the group works.

The statement read: "We’d like to thank everyone who has tried to help in retrieving any flags taken home after the game on Friday.

"We don’t want to see anyone banned or abused for doing so, more just politely reminded that they should remain in the stadium for future use.

"There may be some fans who turn up with their own flags, we’d hate for people to feel like they couldn’t bring their own.

"We’ll be attempting to come up with a system that prevents any future misunderstandings.

"To any fans that have taken them home, and it is a very small minority, please bring them back to the next game.

"They are bought by fans to help create an atmosphere at St James’ Park.

"Sharing this far and wide would be greatly appreciated.

"Howay the Lads."

One fan responded: "Just like the recent PR of NUFC itself, this is another beautifully worded, diplomatic & sensitive example of how to liaise with a wider community which makes me proud to be a #NUFC fan.

"This blends the perspective of a fan with the eloquence of a successful modern organisation."

Another wrote: "Many thanks for your ongoing efforts, looks better every week.

"Finally got to wave one in the Milburn Stand on Friday.

"Perhaps some small stickers on the poles asking people to leave them in their seats, then no argument if they are spotted leaving the ground with them."