A pub in Lewes, East Sussex has apologised for “banning” vegans on Boxing Day while annual hunts took place nearby.

The ban was imposed in anticipation of clashes between those hunting and anti-hunt protestors, which sparked violence across the UK this year.

The Dorset pub left a sign on its door saying, “due to the hunt today, we regret to inform you that we will not be welcoming saboteurs or vegans in to the premises. Kind regards, The Management [sic].”

Photographs of the sign were widely shared on social media as local residents and members of the public expressed outrage and accused the pub of discrimination.

“Why bother being in the hospitality business if you're going to discriminate against the fastest growing market? What a stupid thing to do! Cutting their own throat somewhat!” wrote one person on Twitter.

“Utter disgrace,” added another, while others called for a “boycott”.

The Dorset, which was established in 1670, is owned by Harvey’s Brewery, which has issued an apologetic statement on its website.

“Harvey’s do not concur with the sentiment of this sign in any way, and are appalled at the inconsiderate actions of the individual in question,” it reads before clarifying that Harvey’s doesn’t directly manage The Dorset as it’s a tenanted house.

They said they had been informed by the tenants that the employee responsible for the sign had been suspended amid an ongoing investigation.

“We greatly regret the misperceptions created by this notice and would like to reassure current and future patrons that all are welcome in our establishments, and the season of goodwill to all is keenly observed by us at Harvey’s,” the statement continues.

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An additional statement was released by the licensees of the Dorset, the South East Pub Co Ltd, apologising “for any confusion, offence or upset [the sign] may have caused.”