Leviathan Brewing Company, a bar in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, has barred a man after footage of a woman being attacked at Reform UK's NEC conference was widely shared online. West Midlands Police is investigating a number of assaults that took place on September 4, with video of a group attack on a woman circulating on social media.
The force has urged the public not to share the names of anyone suspected of involvement and instead to pass details to officers. Despite this, Leviathan Brewing published a photo of a man on social media with the message: "Sutton Coldfield pubs and bars. We'll go first… You're barred."
Bar's stance on the ban
The bar claimed a woman was attacked for daring to have a "different opinion" and added: "No mate. We welcome EVERYONE at Leviathan Brewing." The post attracted nearly 4,000 comments, with opinion divided.
One person said: "Sometimes you see a post that restores your faith in humanity, well done Leviathan." Another user commented: "When I'm on my way for a day out from Wales - I'm coming for a pint. Top job Leviathan." A different person wrote: "Respect! Leviathan Brewing, probably the best pub ever."
However, not all responses were supportive. One user said: "This is a pathetic, desperate attempt for publicity." Another wrote: "Definitely give your establishment a miss for supporting aggressive protesters." A further social media user commented: "Well done for informing me to not go anywhere near any of your premises."
Owner responds to criticism
Leviathan boss Chris Hodgetts released a follow-up message on social media, reiterating that the ban was not based on political views. He said: "Personally, I could not give a **** who you vote for. I don't care what colour you are, what your sexual preferences are."
He continued: "For me, are you a decent human being? Do you treat people with respect? Are you nice to people? Are you kind? Do you look after others? If you tick those boxes... that's it, you're wonderful."
Hodgetts added: "If you're a massive **** that is part of a crowd and physically assaults a woman at a political conference about her views not agreeing with you, you're a ****. That's the only reason I have a problem with you. I don't care if you vote for Farage, I don't care if you vote for Polanski, I don't care if you vote for Burnham."
Reaction and next steps
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage responded to the incident by shouting "boring, boring, boring," according to the report. The bar's ban and subsequent comments have sparked a wide range of reactions online, with some praising the decision and others vowing to avoid the establishment.
Leviathan Brewing Company is located at Unit 4&5, 17 Reddicap Trading Estate, Sutton Coldfield, B75 7BU, for those who wish to visit. The investigation by West Midlands Police into the assaults continues, and the force has asked anyone with information to come forward.
