The City Tavern ran regular rock nights until it underwent a recent refurbishment. Its Facebook page advertises that dogs are welcome. Last week it displayed an invitation for New Kids On The Block fans to visit before or after the pop stars' concert in the city. And the staff profile page on their website reveals the assistant manager plays in a punk band.

But Lee Anderson, 22 - who'd been a regular until the venue changed name - has told the Newcastle Chronicle how he and his six friends were ordered out on Saturday.

He says: "The owner insisted the pub has no dress code but he also said, 'You've come in here with Slayer t-shirts and belts - it's not a good look.' None of us were wearing Slayer shirts."