Popular TikTok star Ben Newman, better known as “Spudman”, is facing eviction from his long-standing jacket potato stall in Tamworth, Staffordshire. The Tamworth Borough Council has decided to reclaim his pitch in St Editha’s Square as part of a regeneration project, despite the overwhelming success of his business.
The news has sparked outrage among his loyal fans, leading to a petition with over 65,000 signatures demanding that Spudman be allowed to stay.
With the viral food vendor now fighting to save his livelihood, supporters are rallying behind him to stop the eviction.
Who Is Spudman?
Ben Newman, or “Spudman,” has been serving up delicious jacket potatoes with generous toppings from his food trailer for 22 years. His unique charm and down-to-earth personality helped him become a TikTok sensation, where he now has over 4 million followers.
His videos, showcasing his signature potatoes and interactions with customers, have drawn visitors from across the UK and beyond, turning his food stall into a local landmark.
However, despite his viral success and dedicated following, Spudman now finds himself at risk of losing his business.
Why Is Spudman Being Evicted?
The Tamworth Borough Council has announced plans to remove Spudman’s stall from its current location in St Editha’s Square, stating that they intend to turn the space into a flower bed as part of a regeneration project.
According to Spudman, he was not consulted about the decision and was only informed that he must leave his pitchafter two decades of operation.
“I have lost my pitch to a flower bed… I want to stand on my pitch. That’s where I’ve built my business, that’s where everyone knows I am.” – Spudman
This unexpected move has shocked his fans and supporters, many of whom argue that his stall is an important part of the town’s culture.
Massive Public Support – 65,000+ Signatures and Counting
As news of Spudman’s eviction spread, his supporters quickly mobilized to fight back.
- A petition on Change.org was launched, urging the council to reverse their decision and allow Spudman to continue operating from his original pitch.
- Within days, the petition gathered over 65,000 signatures, with numbers continuing to rise.
- Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, demanding that the council reconsider its decision.
Why Fans Want Spudman to Stay
✔ A Local Icon – Spudman is more than just a food vendor; he has become a symbol of Tamworth.
✔ Boosting Tourism – His viral success has brought thousands of visitors to the town.
✔ Small Business Support – Many believe removing a successful, independent trader in favor of a flower bed is unfair and unnecessary.
✔ Community Impact – Spudman has built a loyal customer base, many of whom rely on his affordable and delicious food.
One supporter wrote:
“Tamworth Council should be celebrating Spudman, not forcing him out. His business brings joy and tourism to the town!”
Another added:
“A flower bed won’t bring people to the town, but Spudman does! This is an awful decision.”
What Happens Next?
Spudman’s Fight to Stay
Spudman has vowed to keep fighting for his pitch, stating that he will do everything in his power to overturn the council’s decision.
The Council’s Response
The Tamworth Borough Council has not yet issued a formal response to the petition, but pressure is mounting for them to review their decision.
With tens of thousands of people now standing behind Spudman, the council may be forced to reconsider their plan.
Will Public Pressure Work?
Given the widespread backlash, there is a strong possibility that:
- The council could reconsider the eviction and find a compromise.
- Spudman may be offered a new location, though fans insist his original pitch is irreplaceable.
- The petition and public outcry could influence decision-makers, forcing a U-turn on the issue.
Conclusion: A Fight for Small Businesses Everywhere
Spudman’s battle to save his pitch is about more than just jacket potatoes—it’s about supporting independent traders and local businesses against unnecessary government decisions.
With 65,000+ signatures and growing, his fans are making it clear that they won’t let him go without a fight.
Now, the question remains: Will the council listen to the people, or will Spudman be forced out of the town he helped put on the map?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—his supporters aren’t giving up anytime soon.
FAQs
1. Why is Spudman being evicted?
The Tamworth Borough Council is removing his food stall to replace it with a flower bed as part of a town regeneration project.
2. How long has Spudman been in St Editha’s Square?
He has operated his jacket potato stall there for 22 years.
3. How many signatures does the petition have?
The petition has already gathered over 65,000 signatures and is still growing.
4. Has the council responded to the petition?
As of now, the council has not issued a formal statement, but public pressure continues to mount.
5. What are the possible outcomes?
- The council could reverse its decision and allow Spudman to stay.
- Spudman may be relocated to a new pitch.
- The council could proceed with the eviction, leading to further backlash.
