Local Pub Responds to Oakham and Stamford Pride Statement Amidst Event Controversy

Local Pub, The Lord Nelson Responds to Oakham and Stamford Pride Statement Amidst Event Controversy

A disagreement has emerged between Oakham and Stamford Pride and a local pub, The Lord Nelson, over a planned "Family Day" event. The dispute began after Oakham and Stamford Pride issued a public statement on its social media pages distancing itself from the pub's event.

The statement from Oakham and Stamford Pride read, "WE WANT TO CLARIFY THIS IS NOTHING TO DO WITH OUR EVENT and we do not support them as their values do not align to PRIDE. We would want any confusion"

In response, Jonny Mitchell, the General Manager of The Lord Nelson and The George Inn, has addressed the public to clarify the pub's position. Jonny stated that the "Family Day" event, scheduled for Sunday, August 10, is part of a broader strategy to create a welcoming environment for everyone in the community.

"The Lord Nelson has been operating, under new management, since Christmas 2024. It is open 7 days a week for people to eat, meet, drink and relax," Mitchell said. "The 'Family Day' we are holding on Sunday 10th August from midday to 4pm, is part of our ongoing strategy to generate 'reasons to come,' and for people of all ages to feel at home in The Lord Nelson."

Mitchell emphasised the pub's commitment to inclusivity, stating, "It is our mission to provide a warm and welcoming environment at The Lord Nelson, so that anybody and everybody from Oakham, the wider community, as well as those visiting the town, can enjoy their time when they are with us."

The current management of The Lord Nelson has denied any allegations of homophobia or transphobia. When Oakham and Rutland News spoke to members of the LGBTQ+ community who are regular customers at the pub, they reported no issues or negative experiences.