THE Clarets were welcomed back to the big time last night as fans declared to the world their pride in ‘Our Turf’.

As the players made their way on to the pitch for the first Premier League game of the season against mighty Chelsea, supporters in the Jimmy McIlroy Stand lifted cards placed on seats under the air to unveil an inspiring mosaic.

Fans had a claret and blue card which displayed the message ‘Our Turf’ in the upper tier, and ‘BFC’ in the lower tier.

It was picked up by Sky Sports cameras and beamed to millions of people watching worldwide as the Clarets kicked off their season in front of a live TV audience.

The club had been keen to encourage fans to create a lively atmosphere at Turf Moor during the Premier League campaign. Last night those supporters took on the challenge with gusto, with the Turf rocking for the visit of Jose Mourinho’s side.

Fans arrived early in their droves, with merchandise sellers offering half-and-half scarves aplenty outside the ground for a memorable fixture.

Inside, the atmosphere built steadily to a crescendo at kick-off as Burnley fans roared their approval at the announcement of the Clarets line-up.

Since last season the club has marketed ticket sales and the ground with the slogan ‘Our Town. Our Turf. Our Time.’ Last night it was clear the message had got through.

After the cards had been put down supporters made plenty of noise in their backing for Sean Dyche and his squad.