A CITY centre pub has defended raising its drink prices during Pride weekend.
Saint James tavern in Madeira Place, Brighton, hiked the cost of a pint to £9 on Friday night.
The average price in the city is about £5.
Punters were said to be stunned, with one online reviewer branding the pub “embarrassing”.
But the venue has defended its actions, saying it will be donating the extra cash to a good cause.
“We are giving the money to the Rainbow Fund Pride charity,” said Victoria Bennett, director at Saint James tavern.
“Plus, we have to pay for security, pay staff higher wages, DJ costs.
“But it’s crazy. Some pubs went up to £15.”
The Rainbow Fund said it was “unaware” of any planned donations from Saint James tavern.
A spokesman said businesses planning to make donations usually contact the charity beforehand, though this is not always the case.
Businesses will almost always advertise or inform people buying a product that a percentage will go to the Rainbow Fund, the spokesman said.
Revellers slammed the bar online as it increased the prices “halfway through the night”.
One person said: "They tried to charge me £9 for a pint, just normal beer, none of that fancy pants stuff.
“I felt sorry for the staff who had to do the explaining to the punters. They had not fixed the prices, the owner had. I'd watch your wallet if you decide to visit. I'd avoid this place at all costs.”
Another said: “This bar is actually embarrassing.
“As if they’ve upped their prices halfway through the night to ‘Pride prices’ and think that’s OK - £9 a pint is disgusting. The owners need to get a grip and realise what Pride weekend is actually about.”
The Argus contacted Saint James tavern for further clarification but did not receive a response.
It comes after footage recently emerged showing an altercation outside the pub after its workers went on strike over pay.
In the footage, a man can be seen holding a thick chain in his hands before running towards the person filming.
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