A spiced rum which opens with a grenade-like mechanism has been removed from sale following complaints.
A controversial ‘Pull The Pin’ rum, created to mark The Royal British Legion’s 100-year anniversary, has been temporarily axed after critics accused the product of celebrating war.
The military charity said on Twitter that that it would review the availability of the drink, which has a distinctive lid with a grenade-style ring-and-pin design.
“After several complaints, we are reviewing Pull the Pin rum at our Poppy Shop and the product has been removed at this time.
“This action has been taken because it is important that we now focus on Armistice Day and Remembrance Weekend, although we remain committed to supporting our veteran community in their post-service employment,” the tweet said.
Made by Pull the Pin Spirits, a Devon firm run by ex-forces veteran Tom Foster and his business partner Kerry Carter, the spiced rum was initially created as a thank you to the Royal British Legion for the support it has given Foster and other ex-military personnel.
Drinks entrepreneur Foster served as an engineer before being medically discharged in 2018, and is said to have received “valuable support” by RBL at the time.
The small company produces a number of spiced and flavoured rum products, all with the same signature lid. It is unknown when or if sales of the spirit will resume.
However, many Twitter users took to the site to express their outrage that the product had been pulled.
“Don’t listen to the idiots complaining. It’s a great concept, and accurately depicts British military humour when faced with adversity. I look forward to buying one,” wrote @jaglancy.
“Judging by reviews and social media it was a very popular product. I’ve got one ready for a special occasion, I’m supporting the veterans business and I hope others will too,” Tweeted @willfarmer1989.
Yesterday, Britain fell silent for two minutes at 11am to honour those who gave their lives during WWII and ongoing conflicts.
