A county in Florida has unanimously voted to reinstate the Confederate flag despite national outcry over the controversial banner.

It has been falling from state capitols across the country after the racist shooting of nine black churchgoers by a pro-Confederate 21-year-old, Dylann Roof.

And last week Marion County followed suit, removing the flag for fear of backlash.

However, the move prompted outrage from local citizens who claim it is a mark of their heritage.

Reinstated: The Confederate flag in Marion County, Florida, after it was reinstated by a unanimous vote

Finally, on Tuesday, Marion County's board of commissioners overruled the decision by board chairman Stan McClain, and the banner was raised up once more.

'We are all exposed to messages and symbols that may not connect for us, but we should all honor our ancestors and protect free expression,' said state Rep. Dennis Baxley (R-Ocala) during a meeting to decide the fate of the flag, according to WKMG.

Members of the public also attended to share their views.

Buddy Proctor said: 'It should be put back. It's a Southern flag.'

'I don't see racism in the symbol of the Confederate flag,' said Debbie Rotstein. 'I see it was part of the Civil War, and it was part of our history.'