A patriotic army veteran has been told he must repaint his “poppy red” pub after the council claimed it breached “conservation area guidelines”. Over 1,500 people have now rallied around the owner of the Jolly Potters and have signed a petition to stop the establishment being redecorated.
James Elliot, 34, took over the pub in Stoke-on-Trent three months ago and spent £15,000 on renovations. He painted the exterior windowswills and doorframe of the pub in red to resemble poppies as a tribute to fallen soldiers, which was inspired by his six-year stint in the army. The pub owner also commissioned a Stoke City Football Club mural and crest on the walls of the pub. However, the Labour-run council has demanded the Jolly Potters to be repainted with more “muted” colours.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council said the artwork must be replaced due to its location within the Hartshill Conservation Area.
One local resident reportedly complained of the pub’s redecoration, and highlighted the conservation area guidelines.
However, Mr Elliot said he “genuinely didn’t know” about the rules, and said he feels “betrayed” by the council’s decision.
“Everyone is a bit shocked by it to be honest. People were ringing me thinking it was a joke and saying they didn’t know it was going on,” he told GB News.
An online petition has now been set up in support of the pub’s colours.
A statement on the Change.org page reads: “Shockingly, Stoke-on-Trent City Council has ordered him to repaint everything in dull creams and greys, citing ‘conservation area guidelines’. This demand comes after just one complaint. One resident’s objection now threatens to erase a vibrant display of heritage, remembrance, and community spirit.
“This couldn’t come at a worse time. Pubs across the country are struggling to survive, and the Jolly Potters is no exception.
“In recent years it has passed through numerous hands and repeatedly fought to keep its doors open. Now, instead of supporting James’ efforts to restore it as a thriving community pub, the council is undermining them.
“The decision feels especially unfair in a year when Stoke-on-Trent City Council themselves are celebrating 100 years of city status – yet at the same time, they are trying to silence a proud display of the very symbols that represent our city’s history and identity.
“We, the undersigned, call on Stoke-on-Trent City Council to reverse this decision immediately.
“The Jolly Potters’ artwork is not an eyesore – it’s a symbol of pride, remembrance, and our city’s 100-year heritage.”
The Express has approached Stoke-on-Trent City Council for comment.
