Southern rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd have reversed their decision to drop the Confederate flag from their stage show following an outcry from fans.

The Sweet Home Alabama singers previously announced they would no longer use the banner, which has been part of their act for many years, over claims its original message had been lost amid race issues.

The musicians insisted they didn't want to be associated with racist groups who have adopted the flag as their own.

However, the rockers have now changed their minds after receiving criticism from their supporters.
 
Guitarist Gary Rossington writes in a message posted on the band's official site,  "Myself, the past and present members (that are from the South), are all extremely proud of our heritage and being from the South. We know what the Dixie flag represents and its heritage; the Civil War was fought over States rights."
 
"We still utilize the Confederate (Rebel) flag on stage every night in our shows, we are and always will be a Southern American Rock band, first and foremost."