Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, was refused service at a restaurant on Friday, sparking angry accusations that Donald Trump's aides are the target of liberal "bigotry".

Mrs Sanders said she had been asked to leave by the owner of the Red Hen, a three hour drive outside Washington.

The story was confirmed by the restaurant's owner who said she felt she had to take a stand for "honesty" and "compassion".

Mrs Sanders wrote on Twitter: "I was told by the owner of Red Hen in Lexington, Virginia to leave because I work for the president and I politely left."

"Her (the owner's) actions say far more about her than about me. I always do my best to treat people, including those I disagree with, respectfully and will continue to do so."