West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker has publicly criticised the food and drink prices at the European Athletics Championships, calling them 'making it inaccessible to many'. His comments came after a BBQ pork roll was priced at £18.50 and a bratwurst at £15 inside Alexander Stadium. Instead of paying those prices, the Mayor visited the Church Tavern pub in Perry Barr, just minutes from the stadium, where he enjoyed a 'proper mixed grill'.
Mayor's response to stadium pricing
Mayor Parker said he was 'disappointed' when he saw the prices being charged inside the stadium. He highlighted that for the same sort of money, he could share a proper mixed grill, have a sit down, and support an independent Birmingham pub at the same time. He also noted that the athletics have been fantastic and it's great to see so many people coming to Birmingham, but emphasised that local businesses around the stadium should benefit too.
The Mayor's intervention follows criticism from Olympian Sharron Davies, who described the prices as 'a real shame', and social media account Save Station Street, which branded them as 'disgusting'. The Church Tavern, which reopened last month after months of closure, is located at 25 Church Rd, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2LA.
Pub owner welcomes mayor and visitors
Church Tavern owner Jessel Chavda said it's been brilliant having the athletics on their doorstep, with people coming in from all over. He noted a good mix of local customers, athletics fans, and people in Birmingham for the Championships, and it's been great to see the pub so busy. The pub is showing the athletics every day, so people who couldn't afford a ticket or couldn't get one can still be part of the action.
Chavda added that as a local independent business, events like this make a real difference. He encouraged people to come in, have a good time, get some proper food, and enjoy themselves. He also welcomed the Mayor's choice, saying if he wants to come in for a mixed grill rather than pay £18.50 for a pork roll, they are more than happy to welcome him.
Local business boost during championships
The Mayor's visit underscores the economic impact of the European Athletics Championships on local hospitality. With thousands of visitors in Birmingham, independent venues like the Church Tavern are seeing increased footfall. The Mayor's call to support local businesses highlights a broader message about ensuring the benefits of major events are shared by the community.
As the championships continue, the Church Tavern remains a popular spot for those seeking affordable food and a place to watch the action. The Mayor's endorsement may encourage more visitors to explore Perry Barr's local offerings, providing a lasting boost to the area's hospitality sector.
