6 days ago
Scots butcher shop 'bars' Nigel Farage after t-bone steak by-election drama
EXCLUSIVE: Award winning Strachan Craft Butchers issued a Facebook post saying the Reform UK leader's trip to the shop was nothing to do with them
A Larkhall butcher has 'barred' Nigel Farage after he ambushed them with a T-bone steak by-election stunt.
Strachan Craft Butchers , a popular shop in the town, has told customers the Reform UK leader's trip was not planned after they received complaints.
In a Facebook message, they wrote: '#Farageisbarred'
The right-wing leader paid a visit to the award winning butcher's on Monday during a brief campaign visit for the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election.
He was accompanied by the BBC and the stop-off was covered in the wider media.
But Strachan Craft Butchers faced a negative reaction from customers and have said the visit was not agreed in advance.
In a social media message, they wrote: 'Posting this to stop any further accusations or loss of customers
'Today we received 2 emails from disgruntled customers about Nigel Farage visiting our Larkhall shop on Monday 2nd June.
'It's imperative that our customers know that this was NOT a planned visit and we had no control over this.
'Mr F swanned in with his party and the BBC to buy a T Bone steak.'
The business added: 'There was no political conversation and only compliments were exchanged regarding the shop and counter.
'Today, Tuesday 3rd June, the BBC returned to the shop to ask for the Teams political views … and as you can imagine, they were politely asked to leave.
'This unannounced visit has made the BBC news and the Times newspaper and has caused a backlash for our business.'
They continued: 'We need our customers to know that we have never and will never support any party or political views.
"We cannot stop individuals visiting our shops, but this doesn't define us personally or professionally.
'We've had many politicians visit our Butchers and Bistro over the years, and for that we are always grateful, but this is the first we've had any sort of backlash.
'These emails are frustrating to read, and the customers have been contacted and both have apologised to us for passing judgment and jumping to conclusions, but it's 2 emails too many, and we fear there may be others.'
The email signed off "What a palava over one wee man" followed by an emoji and: "#Farageisbarred.'
One of the complaints to the butcher shop stated: 'I'd like to know why you've allowed fascists into your shop to openly campaign. Reform are a fascist organisation and shouldn't be welcome anywhere, although unsurprisingly they were welcome in your Larkhall premises. Definitely a company to avoid.'
Another email read: 'I will no longer be buying any of your food products.'
Farage was accused of "bottling" a session with the media in Hamilton after his walk about in Larkhall.
