Nationwide releases statement following harsh comments made about an advert

A new series of adverts from UK bank Nationwide have caused a stir in the UK.

They have also been shown on Irish television through the likes of Sky and Virgin Media on E4 and Channel 4. The adverts shows two girls singing about sibling rivalry, while looking straight to camera. Singing sisters, named Flo and Joan in the advert, but Nicola and Rosie in real life, were at the receiving end of death threats and harsh comments. They received so much negative feedback that the company was forced to release a statement about it. Sara Bennison, Nationwide’s Chief Marketing Officer:

"Social media has provided a great instant barometer of reaction – good and bad. The huge amount of likes and shares have been great. But then there are others who have chosen to post the most vile, abusive and misogynistic comments about the duo. It is not just our Flo & Joan adverts that generate these comments, it is also our adverts that feature people of different colours, backgrounds and perceived sexuality, which attract the most criticism. That’s why it is important to call out those persistent offenders who put out vile comments on a regular basis and who should really know better."