Violent Clash Erupts Outside Striking Stonegate Pub
A shocking brawl broke out outside the Stonegate-leased St James Tavern on Saturday night. The pub was closed due to a strike, with workers joined by over 100 supporters protesting outside.
Landlord’s Nephew Accused of Assault
Police were called after striking staff reported an assault by the landlord’s nephew, who also works as a chef at the pub. Witnesses say he threw a punch at one of the strikers’ supporters before officers arrived. Footage allegedly shows him trying to punch another supporter, escalating tensions further.
Union Claims Management Trying to Smash Strike
This violent incident comes amid claims that pub bosses are trying to break the union. Strike leader Jake Marvin was recently suspended, sparking outrage among supporters.
“When I saw Zak unlocking the chain, I started recording for my safety,” said one anonymous SJT worker. “He got aggressive, yelled ‘stop recording,’ then smashed my phone out of my hand. He would’ve hit me if not for the phone. I was trembling all day after. Then, minutes before my shift, I was told I was no longer needed because of a ‘business downturn.’ That’s a lie – there were still two people working during my usual shift.”
Ex-Worker Blasts Pub Owners’ ‘Disgraceful’ Behaviour
An anonymous former SJT employee described the scene of chaos outside the pub:
“I had to leave a job I loved because of the owner’s behaviour. On strike day, owners and staff were seen shoving people, yelling, and brandishing a chain. The chef tried to snatch my phone aggressively. This is a disgrace. The owners have turned a community pub into a nightmare for staff and customers. They must be removed.”
Union Demands Action and Stonegate Intervention
Petros Elia, general secretary of the United Voices of the World (UVW), slammed the publicans’ behaviour as “illegal and criminal.” He accused them of breaking employment laws and attacking union members’ rights to protest.
Elia added: “Our members have suffered violent assaults by Zak, incidents already reported to police and licensing authorities. We urge Stonegate Group CEO Simon Longbottom to step in and ensure the pub complies with the law and Stonegate’s own values of community care.”
UVW vows to continue campaigning for respect, safety, and dignity for St James Tavern workers, ready to negotiate but prepared to strike if needed.
The St James Tavern was contacted for comment but has yet to respond.
