Cherry Reds, an independent bar on John Bright Street in Birmingham city centre, has received widespread praise for refusing to serve members of the far-right group Britain First following a protest march on Saturday, June 20. Around 100 Britain First supporters marched through the city, waving Union and St George's Cross flags and carrying a wooden Christian cross, before some allegedly attempted to enter the bar after the event concluded.
Staff praised for standing up to racists
A witness shared a photo on X, stating: "Massive respect to @ilovecherryreds staff today facing down racists and refusing to serve them and keeping cool in intense provocation for so called patriots and auditors. Also to Turtle Bay security for stepping in, in a professional manner. Racists are not welcome in Brum!" The post quickly gained traction, with many users commending the bar's stance.
Cherry Reds, located a short walk from New Street Station, has built a reputation as a welcoming venue. The incident occurred as hundreds of counter-protesters gathered in the city centre to call for unity, with police working to keep the two groups apart.
Police operation and arrests
Police vans were deployed from the Tally Ho! training centre on Pershore Road to manage the protest, which saw an estimated 1,000 people in the city centre. Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Burton, who led the operation, said: "Firstly I would like to thank the public for their patience, as we worked hard with our partners to keep everybody in the city centre safe. We have balanced the rights and concerns of the community with the need to facilitate protest, and those who came to protest have been able to exercise that right."
Four people were arrested during the day, on charges ranging from assaulting police to criminal damage. Officers reviewed video footage to identify further offences. Flashpoints occurred when anti-racist protesters attempted to break police lines, and some far-right activists were surrounded by counter-protesters in Victoria Square. In chaotic scenes witnessed by a BirminghamLive reporter, individuals ended up on the floor and were pulled to safety by officers.
Community reaction
Cherry Reds' actions were widely applauded on social media, with users describing the bar as a "safe space" and praising staff for their courage. The bar has not issued an official statement, but the incident has reinforced its reputation as an inclusive venue. Assistant Chief Constable Burton added: "We don’t underestimate the fear and anxiety that protests can cause to Birmingham’s communities, and officers remain in the city centre tonight and over the weekend to offer further reassurance."
