A man who was refused entry to a bar for being too old has been invited for a free pint at a rival venue.

CT's, in Brighton, has also put up a sign saying "Over-50s welcome".

John Deverell, 54, was barred from Polar Central, Queens Road, Brighton, run by pub chain C-Side, because doormen said he was not trendy enough.

He and his 28-year-old son were initially barred by doormen who said the venue wanted a younger clientele.

Jay Grimwood, manager of CT's, which is run by rival pub chain Zel, has now personally contacted Mr Deverell and invited him in for a free pint.

Mr Grimwood said: "The sign was a bit of fun really. I thought it was disgusting he was barred for being too old at 54. Everyone is welcome here regardless of age."

Bev Robbins, former chairman of the Sussex Licensed Victuallers' Association, and landlord of the Hand in Hand pub in Kemp Town, said: "You can't expect to run a successful pub in the centre of Brighton if you bar people like Mr Deverell who runs a business in Brighton and contributes to the economy."

A readers' poll at thisisbrightonandhove.co.uk asked if pubs should be allowed to bar people deemed not 'trendy' enough. A massive 88 per cent voted no.

After Mr Deverell was barred, the manager at Polar Central denied C-Side discriminated against anyone.

No one was available at the venue to comment on CT's sign.