Full Breakdown
Raise the Colours Founder Billy Allison Charged with Murder After Lichfield Bar Attack
5/29/2026, 8:20:56 PM
Incident and Legal Charges
On 24 May at 11:25 p.m., police responded to the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street, Lichfield, after two men were punched. Matthew O’Gara, director of The Plough pub in Huddlesford, died in hospital; Adam Cooper was treated and released. Billy Allison, 36, founder of Raise the Colours, was identified, arrested at 5 a.m. on 26 May, and charged with murder and Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent. He appeared before Judge Avik Mukherjee, was remanded, and a trial is set for 26 October.
Movement Background
Raise the Colours is an activist network urging supporters to display the Union Flag and St George’s Cross on lampposts, cable-tying flags, and has faced scrutiny over its political messaging.
Key Individuals and Victims
Billy Allison, founder of Raise the Colours, identified as the assailant. Victim Matthew O’Gara was a businessman and owner of The Plough pub; his mother mourned. Adam Cooper recovered. The Ricco and Loren bar was devastated.
Chronology
- 24 May, 11:25 p.m.: Punching at Ricco and Loren bar.
- 26 May, 5 a.m.: Allison arrested.
- 27 May: Charged with murder and GBH.
- 26 Oct: Trial.
Official Statements & Responses
Police identified Allison after the assault. A spokesperson called the incident “devastating” and pledged cooperation. Judge Mukherjee reminded Allison of his “obligation to come” for the trial.
Criticism and Past Controversies
Raise the Colours has been criticised for symbolism; co-founder Ryan Bridge was arrested after hit-and-run, and Andrew Currien was convicted in 2009 for killing a Black man.
Data & Statistics
2 victims (1 fatal). Charges: murder, Section 18 GBH. Key dates: arrest 26 May, trial 26 Oct.
Implications
The case puts an activist on trial, prompting scrutiny of the movement’s image, accountability and response to extremist-styled campaigns.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days,” — Spokesperson, Ricco and Loren bar
- “We are sending all our love, thoughts, and best wishes to everyone affected, we will be closed for a few days to give our staff some time, thank you.” — Spokesperson, Ricco and Loren bar
- “My beautiful son taken away from us so suddenly. Dad and me will never get over this. You were too young to leave us. Forever in our hearts,” — Mother of Matthew O’Gara
- “You have an obligation to come. You are expected to be here every day for your trial.” — Judge Avik Mukherjee
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on the incident’s date, location, victims and charges; no contradictory accounts have been reported.
What’s Next
Allison remains in custody pending a September hearing; the trial is set for 26 October. The verdict will determine his fate and may shape public perception of Raise the Colours.
