Leeds city centre bar launches investigation after couple claim they were refused entry for being gay

Jake's Bar said it was policy to welcome customers of any sexual orientation and had strong links with Leeds' gay community.

However, it said it is now investigating claims by a gay couple that they were refused entry to a bar when bouncers told them they let in "mixed-sex couples" only.

Patrick Hannon, 30, and Jake Archer, 25, had a meal before heading to Jake's Bar on Call Lane for drinks at around 10pm on March 24.

They said they had been turned away because they were not a "mixed sex couple".

Mr Archer, of Newcastle, added: "If I was with a girlfriend this would have been fine."

A spokesperson for Jake's said: "A diverse and mixed crowd is fundamental to creating a great atmosphere in any bar, which is why it is our policy to welcome customers of all sexual orientation, races, genders, religions and cultures.

“We have been operating for 12 years and have many regular customers who identify with LGBTQIA+ communities and they are always welcomed with the same level of excellent and open customer service that we always strive for.

“Our door team’s number one priority at all times is to create a safe environment for all our patrons and a guest’s sexual orientation would never and has never been a determining factor as to whether they would permitted entry into the bar”.

“Like most venues in Leeds, our door team is provided by an external supplier and we have launched an investigation into what happened on the night with the external door team.

“As soon as we became aware of the situation we privately reached out to the individuals who made the complaint to fully resolve this matter”.