Cherry Reds, an independent bar on John Bright Street in Birmingham city centre, has stood by its decision to refuse service to far-right Britain First supporters, despite being targeted with a wave of fake negative reviews online. The bar has called on its loyal customers to help combat the 'review bombing' by leaving positive feedback.
Refusal of service leads to revenge reviews
Around 20 to 30 Britain First protesters were refused entry to Cherry Reds on Saturday, June 20, following a march and rally in the city. In retaliation, dozens of one-star reviews appeared on Google and Tripadvisor, accusing the venue of having 'rude staff'. Deputy manager Astou confirmed the bar would not back down: 'Obviously it's not nice, and I think it's taken a toll on the staff here who had to deal with it. We're very resilient people. We've got so much support from the community in Birmingham, from everybody, so we know we did the right thing. We stand by it and we'd do it again.'
Community rallying support
Astou said the team would look into flagging the fake Google reviews for removal. She urged the community to support the bar by leaving five-star reviews and visiting in person: 'They can leave us a great five-star review to begin with and, honestly, just come here and support us, have a pint, chill in the beer garden, just come and say hello. We welcome everybody. As long as you're open-minded and not racist, you're good.' Cherry Reds also thanked security at nearby Turtle Bay for their help in moving the protesters on.
Social media appeal
On Sunday, June 21, Cherry Reds posted on Instagram: 'Our beloved customers! We're currently being review bombed by Britain First protesters who we refused service to yesterday. If you've ever had a positive experience in our café, please write a review to help us combat the negative ones. Thank you for your support!'
Wider context of protest
The incident occurred during a Britain First rally in Birmingham, which was met by a major counter-protest in Victoria Square. Police made four arrests as officers kept the two groups apart. Three women were charged with assaulting police officers: Erin Dawson, 27, of no fixed address; Linda Stupart, 42, of no fixed address; and Hazel Murphy, 28, from Birmingham. They are due in court next month. Jez Collins, founder of the Birmingham Music Archive, praised Cherry Reds on X: 'Massive respect to Cherry Reds 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.'
