A Conservative party leaflet thanking voters and claiming to promote “Britain as a strong force in an uncertain world” has been sent out with a key mistake – a non-existent version of the Union Jack.

The leaflet, which was sent to some households on Monday morning (August 3) inviting people to become registered supporters of the party, prominently features the incorrect symmetrical flag above the words “Thank you”.

The mistake, which was printed despite the Conservative logo featuring the correct Union Jack on the same leaflet, was spotted by Jessica Hayden, 18, and her family of Brooklyn Avenue in Loughton.

She said: “I would not say we are a massively patriotic family, but we just found it funny that it was the wrong way round.

“They sent out a leaflet trying to persuade people to become a Conservative supporter, yet they get the flag the wrong way round… that is quite embarrassing for the party that is running the country.”

The leaflet was sent on behalf of the Epping Forest Conservatives, and includes a list of all the party’s district and county councillors.

It also contains a “personal message” from MP and deputy speaker of the House of Commons Eleanor Laing, who thanks voters for their support in the general election.

She says: “By voting Conservative in greater numbers you said clearly that you want a government that stands up for working people, keeps taxes low, supports the police and armed forces, invests in the NHS and in our schools, builds for the future while protecting our precious countryside and promotes Britain as a strong force in an uncertain world.”

The Conservative office has been contacted for comment.