WAS it the wind or was it a fan of a rival Lancashire football team bearing a grudge?

That's the question on the lips of Rovers chiefs after a 15 foot high straw stuffed replica of a player, complete with official shirt, was found dismembered on the ground.

The club had placed the figure on a field trailer at Long Lane Farm, Chorley, near the M61 as a promotional stunt and put a sign next to it proclaiming "Welcome to Blackburn Rovers county". But when it was discovered in pieces on the floor the finger of suspicion was pointed at the elements - and possibly the fans of Preston North End and Bolton Wanderers who can also be found in and around Chorley.

However, Rovers bosses are undaunted by the minor setback.

A spokesman for the club said Ewood chiefs had plans to put the figure back together and place it back on the trailer.

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