Bar paints over Conor McGregor's Forged beer pumps with abuse charity logo after rape case verdict
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David Stephenson, owner of The Grind in Spennymoor, near Durham, made the decision to end his partnership with Forged after McGregor lost his civil rape case to Nikita Hand on December 5.
David claimed that there is a 'negative' association with the stout, which he does not want in his bar, and said all the proceeds will go to charity.
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The MMA star's beer tap now has the logo of The Survivors Trust, an abuse charity where all the proceeds will be donated to and the stout has been renamed to 'Survivor'.
Footage on The Grind's page showing members of staff painting over the logo and replacing it with the charity's logo. Meanwhile staff can be seen tearing down the illuminated signage of the brand and chucking it in the bin.
The 45-year-old owner admitted that it was 'embarrassing' to sell the stout as it will always be associated with the MMA fighter and sends out the 'wrong message.' The bar staff have been instructed to inform customers who wish to buy the beer about the cause and are hoping to raise awareness.
Although The Grind's partnership with Forged had reportedly been positive, David says the team decided that they no longer want to be associated with the company.
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David, from Spennymoor, Durham, said: "We're a very female-driven business. Around 70% of our customers and staff are female. We thought it was the right thing to do.
"There was some left in stock and we thought there's not much point tipping it down the sink as it had already been paid for and would be a waste. I thought we could do something good with this awful stout. I think it's a less-known form of abuse so I thought we could raise a bit of awareness. People have a voice and when they get together it's a big voice.
"I just don't think the brand is good for anybody's business. It will always be associated with him, the bads outweigh the goods. We really liked the brand, we got represented really well by Forged when we first signed with them, they took us on a trip to Dublin and we went to the brewery, but obviously it's gone sour now."
The video has gathered attention on social media, and despite a few negative comments, he stands by his decision.
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Hide AdDavid said: "Everyone's got their own opinions but my opinion is that I no longer want to sell this stout. It would send the wrong message because everyone's talking about it in a negative way. I don't want that association with my bar. Everyone knows it's the right thing to do. It's non-negotiable and if you don't agree with that then good luck because you won't get very far."
One commenter said: "Bloody awesome!!!!!!! It's hard to get them to hear our voices, but we will never stop shouting from the rooftops!!!"
Another commenter said: "I applaud you for this"
Another said: "Oh wow guys! Well done! Another reason why you are the best!"
A spokesperson for The Survivors Trust said: "As an organisation, we do not comment on individual cases or companies. The Survivors Trust was not consulted in the making of this video, nor has it had any input or issued any statements regarding the case in question.
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Hide Ad"We have made several attempts to reach out to the creators of this film and would welcome the opportunity for a conversation with them so we can continue to use their support to highlight our objectives. The Survivors Trust remains steadfast in its mission to challenge the stigma and shift the culture surrounding sexual violence and sexual abuse, advocating for all people of all ages.
"Awareness is a powerful tool in driving change, and the collective support of communities plays a vital role in creating a safer world. Any funding that supports us in continuing this vital work is always welcome."
Forge have been contacted for comment.
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