O'Neills, Soho

I have visited this bar sporadically, during the past 8 years. We usually attend as a group, 4 - 6 females, occasionally accompanied by 2 or 3 males. All work colleagues.

Yet on Tuesday, 22/02/11, I attended with my partner, who also happens to be black, we were refused entry. The door man stated that only regular customers would be admitted!!! Although at the same time, other people were entering, some providing photographic I.D, but by and large the majority unchecked.

Considering the geographical location, it is likely that a large number of their client�le, are tourist, so could not be deemed as regulars.

I know understand the comment made by a previous poster. Where he stated that a policy to admit "mixed couples" is implemented. I clearly witnessed white women and black men, white men and black women, white couples, but not black couples.

I have never encountered such blatant racism in my life. The incident was both upsetting and humiliating. Irrespective of my surrounding I have always been provided with a level of respect and regard. But as an educated and relatively successful individual, I have the ability to adopt the moral high ground on this matter.

It is saddening to realise that there are establishments such as this, in 2011, who continue to judge others by their skin tone, rather than for who they actually are.

I will be returning, accompanied by a white male colleague, which has happened in the past. I can assure you we will not be refused entry.

24 Feb 2011 18:09