Butcher told by police to take down saucy signs - even though no one complained

One of the signs that gained attention. Photo / Facebook

A British butcher was told to mind his language by police after posting a variety of risque signs to advertise the meat on offer, despite no one complaining.

Pete Lymer from Leek in Staffordshire had started posting some eye-catching blackboards outside J W Ash and Son, but it wasn't long before the police advised him to "give careful consideration" to what he wrote.

Lymer was warned that despite the good intent of the signs, they could cause offence to some.

A spokesman for Staffordshire police said: "We've received no complaints about signage outside JW Ash and Son butchers in Leek.

"However, following a recent media enquiry, the local Chief Inspector for the Moorlands did advise the owner to give careful consideration to what was written on the boards in case anyone took offence. No other action has been taken."

Following the intervention Lymer told the BBC: "I don't want to upset anyone - from now on I'm just going to be a bit cautious. Times have changed - we're just going to let the public decide and go from there."

At the start of the year the butcher announced a competition for who could think of the most eye-catching signs.

On Facebook he wrote: "I would just like to thank every 1 on the support ov my subtle technique ov catching ppls eye with our sign outside the shop, and I've bin that overwhelmed with support I've decided to run a competition with a prize of £20 meat voucher yes a full £20 ov meat."

He said that people simply had to write their suggestions in the comments section and he would pick the best ones, adding that the winner may even become "a local celeb."

One of the signs read "ladies a few big fresh cock chickens still available", whilst others boasted "big breasted birds" and "hungry horny sausages".

The news that the police had intervened was met with scepticism on social media.

On Twitter one user wrote: "Political correctness gone mad. Sadly we're no longer able to have a joke for fear of offending people."

Another added: "Pathetic, why's everyone so serious! Can't say anything nowadays without upsetting some one."