A punter has reported a mock historic slavery poster on display at a Southampton pub as a ‘hate incident’. 

The well-known Red Lion pub has been criticised by a drinker after the “abhorrent and uncomfortable” poster making reference to slavery was spotted inside.

The venue is a long-standing historical drinking establishment on Southampton’s High Street.

With a history dating back to 1148, the Grade II listed building has many historical ties.

But Mike Rose, 38, said he was totally shocked when he saw the poster making reference to slavery on a wall inside the pub on Monday.

He said: “I was having an afternoon pint and taking a look at some of the historical artefacts on the walls.

READ MORE: Man seriously injured in Blendworth Lane in Southampton

“This is when I spotted the word slaves – written all in bold letters and in capitals.”

The poster, dated July 15, 1820, states “For sale, five slaves” with the names and ages of each slave, one as young as 14, being displayed.

It is understood that the poster has been displayed in the pub for 25 years.

Mike added: “I’m a white man myself but find anything making reference to slavery completely abhorrent and not something to be celebrated on posters.

“That tells me that you are not welcome here if you come from an ethnic minority background.

“The pub need to immediately remove it.”

He has reported the poster to the licensing team at Southampton City Council and the police. 

In repose to the report filed, a spokesperson for Hampshire police said: "We received a report of a hate incident on Tuesday, February 27, in relation to a poster displayed in the Red Lion pub on Southampton High Street.

"The report is currently being reviewed by the local neighbourhood policing team."

A council spokesperson said: "Southampton City Council licensing officers and police licensing are conducting joint visits next week and intend visiting the premises then."

The pub was approached for comment but declined.