Oxford United fans have praised the club’s decision to welcome flagpoles back into the stadium on matchdays.

A group of supporters met chairman Kelvin Thomas this week after reports that some flags had been confiscated at recent home games.

It had been thought the poles contravened ground regulations, but after the meeting the U’s have agreed to follow other clubs in allowing a “common-sense approach” to waving banners.

Fans will be able to wave their flags before the game and after goals but not when the ball is in play because it would obscure other people’s views.

Fifteen-year-old flag-waver Zac Knowles, from Middle Barton, said: “It’s great that the club have taken a sensible approach to the situation and I’m glad they could come to some agreement.”

Simon Cant helped found the Ultimate Yellows supporters’ group, which was set up to bring more colour and atmosphere to matches.

He said: “Kelvin Thomas, Mick Brown (club secretary) and Simon Lenagan (son of Oxford United investor Ian) have been immensely impressive in making sure that a small glitch doesn’t become a bigger issue.

“We are thankful to them for taking time out to resolve the issue with a common-sense approach, and be supportive of the attempts by the Ultimate Yellows and other groups to improve the atmosphere at the United stadium.

“Once the issue was flagged they were very pro-active in meeting with us in finding an agreeable and fitting solution. We hope to see flags adding colour to the atmosphere among more and more fans, and for some time to come.”

Rob Newton, from Banbury, has made 100 Oxford United flags for fellow fans, of which about 40 are on poles.

He said: “It’s a sensible and positive approach by the club.

“It’s good to see that the club have recognised that there has never been an issue with the flag poles being used in any kind of aggressive manner in the past two years or so.

“It’s also a positive that the club has been willing to listen to supporters’ views, and to come to a common-sense solution.

“Let’s hope there is a good showing tomorrow, and at future matches, too.”

Club chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “The issue of flags on matchdays has been raised, and we have worked with fans to find a sensible solution.

“It is a big positive that we have more and more fans who want to create an atmosphere here at the ground on a matchday, and as long as everyone is respectful, I don’t see a problem with flags in the stadium.”