Irn-Bru ad faces anti-English watchdog probe

AN Irn-Bru advert is facing a probe by an advertising watchdog after allegations that its latest campaign is anti-English.

• Irn-Bru advert accused of being anti-English draws 67 complaints as advertising watchdog investigates

• Advert shows Scottish father drinking Irn-Bru to keep temper in check as he meets daughter’s England-supporting boyfriend

The Advertising Standards Authority is investigating claims that an advert depicting a Scottish father being introduced to his daughter’s England-supporting boyfriend is racist.

In the clip, the father drinks Irn-Bru to keep his temper in check after his daughter’s new love interest shows off a World Cup 1966 shirt, and welcomes a bulldog draped in an England flag into the house - who then breaks wind on a Saltire rug.

Irn-Bru’s 40-second clip, launched last month, has drawn 67 complaints for its “stereotypical” portrayal of Scottish and English people.

AG Barr’s Facebook page was inundated with complaints about the advert, including one from Peter Menzies, who said: “It’s too stereotypical that all Scots hate the English.”

Craig Russell said: “When did racism become funny? Bru ads can be much more witty than this stereotypical trash.”

But Gary Dow countered by saying: “If you think this is racist then you need a sense of humuor transplant.”

A spokesman for Irn-Bru said: “We’ve not set out to cause offence. Our ads are known for their cheeky sense of humour.”

An ASA spokesman confirmed the complaints were being assessed.

• What do you think? Watch the advert and let us know in the comments section.