Award revoked after comedian's stage abuse

Source: walesonline.co.uk

TL;DR

The story at a glance

Afan Ales & Fine Wines, a Port Talbot business, had its joint runner-up prize in the Best of Welsh Business Awards' best pub/bar 2026 category revoked after comedian Sandro Ford accepted it on stage and called the female host a "ct". The ceremony happened on April 5, 2026, and organisers released video of the incident plus claims of wider abuse towards winners. The company rejects allegations of racism or homophobia by its team.

Key points

Details and context

The incident unfolded at the awards ceremony on April 5, with the story reported the next day. Organisers said the business's actions undermined the awards' integrity despite the public vote.

Afan Ales focuses on craft ales and fine wines in Port Talbot; this was their recognition in the pub/bar category.

No prior issues with the company are mentioned, and the row centres on who spoke and whether it ties to the business.

Key quotes

"Although this business was voted as a joint runner-up in their category, their actions were not representative of the integrity associated with our awards."

— Best of Welsh Business Awards statement

"For the avoidance of any doubt, neither I nor my business, Afan Ales, made any racist or homophobic remarks. Any suggestion to the contrary is entirely false."

— Afan Ales owner

Why it matters

Awards like these boost local businesses' reputation in competitive sectors like hospitality.

It warns companies about who they send to represent them at public events, as backlash can lead to bans and legal costs.

Watch for any legal action from Afan Ales or further videos from the organisers.