Anti-slavery campaigners are calling for the public to boycott Thatchers cider after claiming it has links to a shameful chapter in the UK's past.
A Bristol -based pressure group called Countering Colston has asked people not to buy the popular booze brand following a recent tweet naming Martin Thatcher, the company's director, as a member of the Society of the Merchant Venturers.
They describe the organisation as an "elite private members club," a once prominent member of which was notorious 17th century slave trader Edward Colston - whose statue was toppled by protestors into the River Avon in June 2020.
Read more: Slavery and Wales: The mansions and wealth that reveal how the nation was linked to the slave trade
“The SMV has deep roots in the historical slave trade in Bristol, and its members were responsible for the suffering and death of tens of thousands of human beings," went the tweet.
"They are a powerful unelected elite who have significant influence on political and civic life in the city."
However, according to Bristol Live, Mr Thatcher - reportedly a member of SMV since 2012 - said his intention was to bring "“fresh perspective” to the organisation, particularly in how it engages with its history.
“During the time I have been a member, I have been able to contribute to the valuable, philanthropic work that members of the Merchant Venturers do with organisations across Bristol, from care homes to education establishments," he said.
“As a relative newcomer to the society, I hope I’ve been able to bring a fresh perspective to (its) thinking.
"In particular as to how the SMV needs to acknowledge what has happened in the past, yet continue to do its fantastic work for all Bristol communities in a way fitting and relevant for our lives today."
Nevertheless, the calls for a boycott on Thatchers has prompted anger online.
''Haven't these idiots in Bristol got better things to do?" asked Lee Turner.
''The best solution for them is to just move out the city if they don't like it."
Benjamin Allen added: ''I'll put up with most of these woke tempter tantrums, but this is where I draw the line."
Meanwhile, 'Wayne Worlock posted, "It's crazy to think that modern day business is still potentially supporting groups that were involved in the slave trade so many years ago.
''These groups have a different agenda now and wouldn’t support the old times in any way whatsoever.''
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