Pub Chaos Erupts as Landlord’s Nephew Throws Punch Amid Workers’ Strike
Violence broke out outside the Stonegate-leased St James Tavern on Saturday night after workers staged a strike. The pub was closed due to the industrial action, but tensions soared when the landlord’s nephew, a chef at the venue, allegedly launched a punch at a striking worker’s supporter.
Police were called following reports of the assault. Witnesses say the chef was also filmed attempting to hit another supporter. The shocking incident has thrown the spotlight on the bitter dispute at the popular Stoke pub.
Strike Leader Suspended as Supporters Claim Union-Busting Tactics
The drama comes after strike leader Jake Marvin was suspended. Supporters accuse pub management of trying to break the union.
An anonymous UVW member, who works at St James Tavern, described their terrifying encounter with the landlord’s nephew, Zak:
“When I saw Zak unlocking a chain, I started recording for my protection. He’s aggressive. He shouted ‘stop recording’ and smacked the phone from my hand. I felt like he’d hit me if the phone wasn’t there. I was shaking all day. It turned from terror to rage and physical abuse. Then, just before my shift, I was told I was no longer needed due to ‘business downturn’ – which I think is a lie. There were two people working that day, and one should have been me.”
Ex-Worker Blasts “Disgraceful and Violent” Behaviour by Pub Owners
A former St James Tavern employee, who also witnessed the weekend chaos, said:
“I had to leave a job I loved because of the new owners’ behaviour. When I came back to film the strike, I saw the owners pushing people and threatening supporters with a chain. The chef even tried snatching my phone. Their violent actions have ruined what was once a thriving community pub. They have no place in this industry and must be removed. We’ll keep fighting and we will win!”
Union Boss Demands Action from Stonegate as Police Investigate Assaults
UVW general secretary Petros Elia condemned the pub’s management:
“The actions of the St James Tavern landlords are illegal and criminal. Zak and Vicky have not only broken employment laws but attacked our members’ rights to protest. Members have faced violence and intimidation, which has been reported to police and licensing authorities. We urge Stonegate Group CEO Simon Longbottom to step in and uphold their own values of putting pubs at the heart of their communities.”
Elia added that the ongoing misconduct is damaging the local community and harming the reputation of what should be a friendly neighbourhood pub. The union vows to keep striking until workers receive respect and a safe workplace.
The St James Tavern was contacted for comment. Stonegate’s response is awaited.
