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On 26 October 2026, J D Wetherspoon PLC issued a statement refuting a Daily Mail article that claimed the company had banned poppy-wearing veterans from its pubs. Wetherspoon explained that extra security during a nearby demonstration on Sunday led to some poppy wearers being refused entry to its Star pub in Gosport, which was subsequently closed for the rest of the day on police advice. The pub has since reopened, Wetherspoon has apologized to affected customers, and the company noted that its pubs raised £55,687 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal last year.
| Date | 26 Oct 2026 |
| Time | 11:57:40 |
| Category | Miscellaneous |
| ID | 4709A |
26th October 2026
J D WETHERSPOON PLC
NEWS RELEASE – WEARING POPPIES IN WETHERSPOON PUBS CORRECTION
A highly misleading headline in the Daily Mail (26 October) says:
“Fury as Wetherspoon BANS veterans from entering if wearing a poppy”
In fact, Wetherspoon has not banned veterans wearing poppies.
Wetherspoon is a long- standing supporter of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and sells poppies in its pubs.
Last year, for example, the pubs raised £55,687 for the appeal.
There was a demonstration in Gosport on Sunday, near Wetherspoon’s Star pub and there were extra security measures in place.
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 re-opened and Wetherspoon has apologised to customers for the inconvenience.
ENDS
Enquiries:
Nigel Connor Legal Director 07818 232529
Eddie Gershon Company Spokesman 07956 392234
Please send any questions by email to [email protected]
Notes to editors
1. J D Wetherspoon owns and operates pubs throughout the UK. The Company aims to provide customers with good-quality food and drink, served by well-trained and friendly staff, at reasonable prices. The pubs are individually designed, and the Company aims to maintain them in excellent condition.
2. Visit our website: www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk