Outrage as mayor lifts ban on Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown playing hometown gigs prompting critics to moan ‘It’s like stepping back into the Seventies’
- Middlesbrough mayor Andy Parsons has lifted the comedian’s unofficial ban
- He said there was an unwritten rule in the Town Hall about Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown
- Critics claim allowing him to play the venue is like stepping back to the 1970s
- Fans have welcomed the decision to allow the 74-year-old to play his home town
Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown has been allowed to return to Middlesbrough Town Hall after Mayor Andy Parsons lifted an ‘unwritten policy’ of blocking the comedian from performing at the venue
Controversial comedian Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown has been allowed to return to his hometown venue after the Middlesbrough’s mayor lifted an unofficial ban.
Mayor Andy Parsons said Middlesbrough Town Hall had an ‘unwritten’ policy of preventing the local comedian, whose real name is Royston Vasey, from playing the venue.
The 74-year-old comedian, whose act is known for its vile language and casual racism was recently prevented from playing in Swansea after he was deemed too offensive.
However, Mr Preston said if people consider his act offensive they should not go to the event.
He said: ‘Despite the rumours, comedian Roy Chubby Brown was never officially banned from Middlesbrough Town Hall.
‘But I discovered the Town Hall had an unwritten policy of not allowing him to play here because he was considered ‘offensive’.
‘I’m happy to confirm that the Town Hall is ready to announce some dates in the new year for Chubby to perform at the Town Hall.
‘Many big comedy names are controversial – in fact, that’s really part of what comedy is.
‘Many comedians say things that some people may find offensive.
‘Personally, Chubby Brown’s act isn’t my cup of tea – but I respect and will defend the right of Chubby to perform his act and for those who do find him funny to spend their hard-earned cash on tickets to see him.
‘If you find Chubby Brown’s act offensive, there’s a simple answer – don’t go to see him.
‘But I know there are lots of other people who do want to see him – and now they’ll be given that opportunity to see him in his hometown.
‘At the Town Hall, we pride ourselves on a comedy programme that’s exciting, wide-ranging and sometimes controversial – that way we can deliver first class entertainment for all tastes.
‘I’m sure Chubby’s Boro comeback will be a massive hit with his fans.’
The Middlesbrough-born comic was subject to an ‘unwritten ban’ from the Town Hall venue
The comedian’s management said he was ‘delighted’ to return.
However not everyone was happy with the Mayor’s decision.
Jamie Donnelly said: ”I don’t think it reflects well on the council.
‘Difficult to argue with “give the people what they want”, but I am very uncomfortable with the abhorrent material that Chubby and his audience will be getting kicks out of.
‘In such divisive times, the thought of people cheering on a torrent of racist jokes makes me uncomfortable.’
Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston announced his decision to allow the gig to go ahead on Twitter. He said there had been an ‘unwritten policy’ to block him in future
Some local resident’s praised the mayor’s decision to overturn the unofficial ban
Dahlian Kirby blasted: ‘It’s like stepping back to the 70s.’
Dominic Lusardi slammed: ‘You just have to look at his work from the 80s and 90s to see he has no place in modern entertainment I’m afraid.’
Tom Burton raged: ‘Racism is abhorrent and the council should not showcase this sort of performance.’
However, some people praised the decision.
Jackie Godward said: ‘Well done! Common sense at last.
‘The lad should be welcomed back with open arms.
‘Many people here will flock to see him. Ok not me, but that’s my choice.’
Paul Tidy wrote: ‘I loved him in my teens and early 20s, but have grown out of him.
‘He’s a legend though, and a local hero who has put Middlesbrough on the map, and is still loved by millions.
However, not all residents of Middlesbrough welcomed the decision
Brown had earlier been banned from playing The Grand Theatre in Swansea, pictured, after management said the performer did not match the aims and attitudes of the venue
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