The Hornsey off-licence condemned for its “irresponsible” new name - “alcoholic” – has backpedalled somewhat and replaced its sign with one less likely to outrage passers-by.
After it’s controversial rebrand attracted condemnation from neighbours and even a national charity, Haringey Council stepped in and forced a change.
Now the name reads “Your Local Store”. The owners had told this newspaper they would try to change the Cs in the word “alcoholic” to Ks, but this plan appears to have been abandoned.
National alcohol awareness charity Alcohol Change UK even stepped in. Its director Dr Richard Piper told this newspaper the controversial sign could “only have negative effects”.
Local woman Rachel Oakes was pleased to see the sign changed. She said: “I’m glad, they’ve obviously listened to local pressure! I guess they just thought it was a bit of a joke really.”
A Haringey Council spokesperson said: “The sign was contrary to licensing regulations, which forbids the irresponsible promotion of alcohol. We take these issues very seriously and our enforcement team took immediate action.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here