A 32-year-old man has been banned from all Wetherspoons pubs in Birmingham city centre following a racially motivated assault at the London and North Western pub, located within New Street railway station. Bradley Smith, from Pinfold Street, Darlaston, Walsall, directed racist abuse at customers and staff, including an older black patron and bar staff members, before becoming physically aggressive.
The incident, which took place on 14 October last year, saw Smith reportedly ‘start on’ a 70-year-old black customer, call another a ‘stupid black b****’, and shout abuse at the bar staff. According to court reports, Smith went on to assault the duty manager, a woman who described herself as ‘half black’, by putting his hands around her neck and strangling her. He also bit another individual during the altercation, leaving a visible bite mark.
Members of the public intervened to restrain Smith until police arrived. Upon arrest and subsequent search, a small quantity of cannabis was found on him.
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At Birmingham Magistrates' Court, Smith pleaded guilty to racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH) and possession of cannabis. Prosecutor Ms Begum detailed the attack and the aftermath, highlighting the impact on the victims. The duty manager, who has worked for Wetherspoons for 14 years, expressed that though she had previously endured abuse at work, this incident was particularly distressing. She reported feeling constantly anxious and on edge in public since the attack.
Smith, who has 11 prior convictions for 20 offences but no recent trouble for ten years, claimed he did not enter the pub intending to cause trouble. He suggested his drink may have been tampered with after leaving it unattended.
Judge Hayles instructed Smith to adhere to bail conditions that include a ban on entering any Wetherspoons in Birmingham city centre, stating, “Just don’t go in there, you are not welcome.” Sentencing has been postponed pending a probation report.
The case underscores ongoing concerns around racially motivated violence and the safety of staff in public venues.