There has been backlash from the local community as a Stamford-based venue, Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, have announced an upcoming performance from Katie Hopkins, columnist, former business woman and far-right political commentator.

Despite the instigation by local man Bret Allibone of an online petition, which has nearly 400 signatures, the theatre team are standing by the booking.

They have said: "Different shows appeal to a wide range of people and we strive to find a production for everyone. We pride ourselves in being inclusive and offer diversity across our programme. 

'We of course listen to our patrons, and we will forward all comments to the management company that is putting on this performance. They hire our space, and we work closely with them with feedback running up to. They have reiterated this to us this morning: The show is pure comedy and nothing about her opinions or hate speech at all, just comedy, and she says so herself."

Now, local resident Murray Scott has written to Stamford Nub News to share his view on the controversy.

Mr Scott wrote: "I am a massive fan of the Stamford Corn Exchange.

"I am however so shocked and disgusted that this is the type of person (Katie Hopkins), you would give a stage to spit her racist, ageist, xenophobic and elitist hate speech. We have moved forward with what is social acceptable to make these type of comments illegal.

"Saying no to Katie Hopkins booking a show is not protecting free speech. If her racist hate speech silences others by interfering with its production, distribution, comprehension, or consideration, then her words will function to undermine, rather than exemplify or enhance, the freedom of speech.

"Ridicule, sarcasm and irony are very funny in many situations but evil, lying, headline grabbing, fame hungry nastiness is not acceptable.

"I will not visit the theatre or market while this is still a booking!"

While this performance is clearly dividing audiences, one thing is for sure - Katie Hopkins continues to provoke controversy, and this controversy is selling tickets.

The theatre added that Katie Hopkins: Live has "been our highest selling show over this weekend, alongside the pantomime Cinderella."

The show description reads: " Outspoken about everything, the Daily Mail titled her the Biggest Bitch in Britain.

"Katie is the perfect night out if you want to laugh at the insanity of our lefty world…..she's not PC but totally LOL."

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