The flag, only unveiled in the summer, was snatched from its position in High Street between 6.30 last night and 10am today.

The pole itself has been damaged by fire and the manual pulley destroyed beyond repair.

A Union Jack was due to fly from it at half mast on November 12 but it is doubtful whether there is enough time and money to fix it.

The black and white flag cost £100 and was designed by former villager David Pugh. It celebrates the surroundings of the area and features a bridge with a canal passing beneath and greenery.

The flag was officially unveiled at Pelsall Carnival in July and has since been flown at full mast on a permanent basis.

Furious ward councillor Garry Perry spotted the flag was missing this morning.

He said: “If anyone knows where the flag is, or is holding on to it for whatever reason, please find it in yourself to return it to the village.

The mast has been left charred by fire damage and the so-called “vandal proof” locked compartment, that houses the manual pulley has been broken.

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