Row over pub's "Hitler" sign

A new JD Wetherspoon pub has caused controversy after members of the public claimed the person on its sign resembles Adolf Hitler.

The John Masefield in Rock Ferry, Merseyside has already been nicknamed "the Adolf" by locals - and local councillor Steve Niblock has written to Wetherspoon to complain.

Opened last week, the John Masefield is named after a former poet laureate, but the unfortunate choice of picture on its sign has led to talk of having it replaced.

Wetherspoon has played down the impact of the sign, suggesting local media have exaggerated the public's reaction. "The story has an element of truth in it, but it's gained momentum," said spokesman Eddie Gershon.

"A couple of people in the area commented that there was a likeness between the sign and Adolf Hitler, but as far as we're aware the only person that's formally complained is the councillor who wrote to us in a straightforward and polite way."

Gershon also indicated that Wetherspoon would consider changing the sign if they felt it was "appropriate" to do so, but denied that the choice of image was a publicity stunt to draw attention to its new pub.

"Wetherspoon's get publicity day in day out anyway because it's a company that's constantly doing things. People ultimately will or won't go to a pub because of what it offers, not as a result of any furore surrounding it."

John Masefield spent his Merchant Navy apprenticeship on HMS Conway, which was moored at Rock Ferry, and is said to have been inspired to write poetry during the period.

He was made poet laureate in 1930.