JD Wetherspoon has rejected claims it banned customers from wearing Remembrance poppies after a viral video appeared to show a military veteran being refused service. The company said it has never introduced such a ban, clarifying that a demonstration near one of its pubs led to additional security measures.
Footage emerged online appearing to show a member of staff describing the poppy as "political" and explaining a blanket policy covering anything perceived as such. The incident sparked widespread anger, with critics questioning how a symbol of remembrance for Britain's fallen servicemen and women could be treated as a political statement.
Correction issued over 'ban' reports
In a clarification titled "Wearing Poppies in Wetherspoon Pubs – Correction," the company challenged reports suggesting veterans had been banned from its premises. It said: "A highly misleading headline in the Daily Mail (October 26) says: 'Fury as Wetherspoon BANS veterans from entering if wearing a poppy'. In fact, Wetherspoon has not banned veterans wearing poppies."
The chain also highlighted its longstanding relationship with the Royal British Legion, confirming its pubs sell poppies every year to support the charity's annual appeal. It added its pubs raised £55,867 for the Poppy Appeal last year.
Gosport demonstration and police advice
Addressing the circumstances surrounding the incident, Wetherspoons said there had been a demonstration in Gosport on Sunday near its Star pub, prompting additional security measures. The company added: "Unfortunately, some poppy wearers, and other members of the public, were refused entry."
"On the advice of the police, the pub was closed for the rest of the day. The pub has now reopened, and Wetherspoon has apologised to customers for the inconvenience."
Chairman responds to backlash
Wetherspoons chairman Tim Martin also personally addressed the backlash, firmly rejecting suggestions staff had been instructed to turn away customers wearing remembrance symbols. He said: "Wetherspoon is a longstanding supporter of the Royal British Legion and sells poppies on its behalf every year in the pubs. Wetherspoon never has, and never would, instruct its staff to turn away people because they are wearing poppies."
However, the footage has continued to attract criticism, with a former Royal Marines Commando among those expressing outrage over what appeared to have happened. Speaking out after the initial claims emerged, the former serviceman said he was "absolutely shocked and sickened" to hear that an Army veteran had allegedly been refused entry because of his poppy. He added: "Our servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice must never be treated as though their sacrifice is something to be embarrassed about or hidden away. This whole episode is shameful."
