Two parish councillors are pursuing legal action against a neighbour over a defamatory Facebook post. Mark and Melissa Drabble are seeking £75,000 in damages, plus interest and legal costs, from Christopher Bramhall.

Defamation Claim Details

The legal claim centers around a Facebook post made by Mr. Bramhall that accused Mr. Drabble of being “on drugs” and carrying a knife. The couple asserts these claims have significantly damaged their reputations as both parish councillors and business owners in the Dove Holes community.

The Drabbles claim the post led to harm to their business, loss of promotional opportunities, increased social hostility, and considerable anxiety. They are seeking to raise awareness about the consequences of spreading false information online.

Origin of the Dispute

The conflict originated during the annual Dove Holes Bonfire Night in November 2024. A disagreement arose between Mr. Drabble and Christopher Bramhall’s brother, Nathaniel Bramhall, regarding the placement of a fairground ride.

Physical Altercation and Criminal Charges

The dispute escalated into a physical assault, with Nathaniel Bramhall punching and kicking Mr. Drabble while he was on the ground. Nathaniel Bramhall was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison at Derby Crown Court after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm earlier this month.

The Facebook Post and its Impact

Following the assault, Christopher Bramhall posted on the Dove Holes Community Association Facebook page, which has 3,800 members. The post alleged Mr. Drabble was “high on drugs” while driving and carrying a knife, which was supposedly seized by the police. He also claimed he was physically assaulted by Mr. Drabble.

The post received 141 reactions, amplifying its reach. The Drabbles, who run a reclamation and salvage business and have gained media attention – with Mrs. Drabble appearing on BBC1’s ‘The Bidding Room’ and Mr. Drabble on Discovery Channel’s ‘Scrap Kings’ – argue the post negatively impacted their business and public image.

Details from the High Court Writ

The High Court writ details Mr. Bramhall’s questioning of the councillors’ behaviour, describing their tone as “horrendous” and unacceptable. He also claimed to have “written confirmation” regarding a prior agreement about equipment at the event, emphasizing his family’s four-decade history of providing rides for the Dove Holes bonfire.

Limited Public Commentary

The Drabbles have declined extensive comment, citing concerns about jeopardizing their legal case. Mr. Bramhall has acknowledged knowing the couple but stated “there is ‘a lot more to it’” than what has been publicly disclosed.