THIEVES marred jubilee celebrations by stealing a 50-year-old flag belonging to a war veteran.

Former soldier Robert Sebag-Montefiore, who is married to Joan, loaned the four-feet Union Flag to neighbour Sonia Butler to hang at Poundbury, Dorchester.

But thieves stole the 50-year-old flag From Mrs Butler's gate in Stokehouse Street during the night.

Now they are appealing for the flag to be returned and for anyone who knows where it is to contact them.

Mr Sebag-Montefiore, who brought the Union Flag to Britain when he emigrated from Canada in 1969, said: "It is a shame.

"I feel it is bad that someone could stoop so low as to do this. I brought the flag with me when we came across in 1969.

"It was 50 years old and in beautiful condition."

The flag, which was made around the time the Queen ascended to the throne, was hung as part of celebrations at Poundbury.

Families at Prince Charles's dream development also threw a children's party and joined in an open air ceilidh.

Mr Sebag-Montefiore, who is in his 80s, fought as a British subject with the Canadian Grenadier Guards in Europe during the Second World War.

The flag theft on Sunday night came after crooks stole flowerpots from outside homes on the development last month.

Mrs Butler, who lives opposite Mr Sebag-Montefiore in Stokehouse Street, said: "I feel so cross and sad.

"I am patriotic, think the Queen has done a good job and wanted to celebrate her Golden Jubilee.

"Bob let me use his flag and then someone came and lifted it from the gate overnight.

"He fought in the war in Europe and brought it over with him when he moved to this country.

"It's dreadful that someone could steal such a treasured item in this way."

She added: "It would be nice if someone could return it or help us find it."

Anyone with information about the flag is urged to call (01305) 269865 or return it from where it was taken.