An Irish bar café has been heavily criticised after refusing to serve “loud Americans”.

Peter’s Place, in County Kerry, had the controversial window sign on display last month.

It was spotted by Northern Irish tourist Maurice Campbell, who posted the above picture on Twitter, provoking a strong reaction from many users.

He commented: “It must be a great thing in life to have your money made!”

Eileen Gabbett, from Dublin, said: “I think it's dreadful and ever so racist. Only for "loud" Americans Kerry would be a poorer area.”

<noframe>Twitter: Niall O'Driscoll - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/mauricecampbell" target="_blank">@mauricecampbell</a> sorry you had to see that. I'm from Cahersiveen, the town before waterville, and we welcome all Americans loud or quiet.</noframe>

<noframe>Twitter: Tom Curtin - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/thedrisc" target="_blank">@thedrisc</a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/mauricecampbell" target="_blank">@mauricecampbell</a> My grandmother, Bridget O'Neill, was from Cahersiveen. I'll be sure to skip Waterville and vist Cahersiveen.</noframe>

<noframe>Twitter: Maurice Campbell - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/sadhuminstrels" target="_blank">@sadhuminstrels</a> Please don't let one guy put you off Ireland. You are as welcome as the flowers in May; it's great fun and beautiful.</noframe>

The café is situated in the picturesque village of Waterville, located on the Ring of Kerry tourist trail, an area reliant on visitors.

Mr Campbell later told CNBC: “I thought it was out of order. It seemed nasty.

“It's in an area that's very dependent on tourism.”

Waterville residents have also hit back, taking to the streets with US flags and bunting to show their US cousins are welcome.

The controversial sign has also been criticised in the US after national media organisations picked up the story.

IrishCentral, an Irish news site based in North America, said Waterville had a lot to thank America for.