Home / Arts and Entertainment / Burger Bar's Spoof Plaque Sparks Row With Historians
Burger Bar's Spoof Plaque Sparks Row With Historians
19 Feb
Summary
- A spoof blue plaque claimed Toto wrote 'Africa' at a burger bar.
- Preston Historical Society says it did not authorize the plaque.
- The restaurant owner claims the plaque was meant as a light-hearted joke.
A humorous dispute has arisen in Preston, Lancashire, between a local historical society and a burger bar over a spoof blue plaque. The sign, costing £30, was placed on the front of the establishment 'All Hopes No Promises' with the claim that 1980s rock band Toto wrote their hit song 'Africa' inside.
The Preston Historical Society has stated that it did not give permission for the plaque to be displayed or for its logo to be used. Society trustees attempted to remove the sign on Friday, but were stopped by the restaurant manager.
Michael Evans, the owner, explained the plaque was intended as a light-hearted joke, aligning with his business's fun and unconventional approach. He felt the society's reaction was overly harsh, especially given the plaque's intent was never to cause offense.
Despite the society's objections, the sign remains, with staff continuing to explain its humorous intent. The burger bar plans to replace it with a similar plaque, this time poking fun at the historical society's strong reaction. The covering manager noted customers enjoy the sign, seeing it as part of the establishment's playful identity.
