Absolutely pathetic’: Northamptonshire pub manager condemns ‘banter’ comments after threatening incident
A pub manager has hit out at the ‘sickening’ response of social media users after an incident which saw staff and other bar goers being threatened.
Scott Langford is the former owner and current manager of Pete’s Place in Brackley. He was at the bar on Friday July 10 when a group of men made misogynistic comments and threats.
He requested they leave, but then claims one of them tried to hit him and grabbed another person by the throat.
Scott, who is also a councillor for Brackley Town Council, also said threats of rape and murder were made.
The incident prompted an appeal from Northamptonshire Police, who are calling for any witnesses to get in touch following the incident.
But Scott said he has been left shocked by the online response from some of the public on the back of the police appeal.
He says comments have been made including ‘did someone use hurty words towards the girl?’ and ‘wasting police time with banter’.
Scott told the Chronicle & Echo: “This incident is one of the worst I’ve ever experienced in over 20 years.
“The reaction online has included saying it was probably the girls’ fault. The misogynistic comments were just one part of it, the threats of rape were towards men.
“The sickening and saddening comments go to show that sexism and misogyny are still rife. There has been a disgusting public response.
“The shield of ‘banter’ that is thrown about is absolutely pathetic. I personally don’t stand for anything like it in my venues. Female staff are in charge of when action is taken as I believe they have the right to decide when they need my intervention.”
Scott has worked in the hospitality industry for more than two decades, and says in his experience incidents of racism and sexism have increased.
He added: “We have had very few bad incidents over the years considering we are a late-night venue.
“However, racism and sexism are on the rise massively and it’s utterly disgusting. It seems more hostile now.
“I’m a proud supporter of White Ribbon, which works to prevent men’s violence against women and girls. We share the building here with a neurodivergent cafe by day and local charity Mental Health Friends, so this is a cause close to my heart.”
A spokesperson for Northamptonshire Police said: “The incident happened on Friday July 10, at about 12.30am, when a group of men made misogynistic comments and threats to other people in a bar.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information to make an anonymous report.