Police in Pembrokeshire are trying to track down the culprits that erected a Russian flag outside the home of a seaside village’s community council.

An image of the flag raised at the Regency Hall venue appeared on the Facebook group ‘Saundersfoot Connect’ - with the person sharing the photo stating: ‘Anybody know whty this is flying outside the Regency?’

The white-blue-white flag is deemed offensive due to its association with the invasion of Ukraine and the actions of the Russian government

Responding to the insensitive prank, the village’s county councillors acted swiftly once the matter was brought to their attention, and took the offending flag down.

“I would like to confirm that a Russian flag was hoisted at the Regency without any authorisation or approval,” stated Cllr Williams.

"This was brought to my attention by several residents, and I would like to thank them for making me aware. Councillor Cormack and I acted immediately to remove it.

"The display was wholly inappropriate and does not in any way represent the views of Saundersfoot or its residents.

"Our village prides itself on being inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to all, and this unauthorised act was both disappointing and unacceptable.

"We will continue to ensure that the Regency, as a focal point in our community, reflects those values.”

Responding on social media, a spokesperson for Saundersfoot Community Council stated: "This is our flagpole and the flag was most definitely not raised by us. We have now taken it down and reported the matter to the police."

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police stated: "A report has been received that sometime between 10pm, Friday, August 29th and 10.30am, Saturday, August 30th, a Pembrokeshire flag was stolen from the flag pole outside Regency Hall, Saundersfoot and minor damage was caused to the flag pole.

"Enquiries are ongoing."