Tamworth's beloved Spudman has publicly criticised a Midlands council over what he describes as excessive fees and bureaucratic hurdles. Ben Newman, known to millions as Spudman, took to social media to share his frustration after unsuccessful negotiations with Derby City Council.
Spudman's Social Media Appeal
In a video posted to his 1.9 million Facebook followers, Newman revealed he has been trying to organise a potato pop-up in Derby for some time but has faced 'absolutely no luck' with the council. He cited high costs and administrative issues as the main obstacles.
Newman, who rose to fame on TikTok in 2024 by serving jacket potatoes to eager customers, said he has never brought his successful pop-up concept to Derby despite its popularity in Tamworth.
Details of the Proposed Event
Newman explained that he wanted to hold the event in conjunction with Derby Royal Hospital, donating 10 percent of takings to the Derby dialysis unit. However, the council allegedly demanded a 'ridiculous amount of money' and rejected his preferred dates and location.
He said: 'They are like "you can't have the place you want to go on these dates, and if we could, it would be this much money" and "you're just a jacket potato seller, why do you want the whole square?".' Newman noted that the event would need to be classified as such due to the large crowds it attracts.
Appeal to Local Businesses
Newman asked if any Derby business could provide a large car park or space for a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, highlighting the potential footfall it would bring. He said: 'I'm not saying it'll translate to customers, but it'll bring a lot of people in.'
A Derby City Council spokesperson responded: 'Our team is in contact with Spudman and continue to have positive discussions about potential venues and ways to support this event.'
