WEARING POPPIES IN WETHERSPOON PUBS CORRECTION

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