Nike's threat over Peter Kay ads

Nike is threatening to sue John Smith's over its Peter Kay adverts, claiming their slogan "Just 'ave it" is a rip-off its famous "Just do it" line.

The sports goods giant has fired off a legal letter to brewers Scottish Courage, claiming the £10million campaign is "detrimental to Nike's trademarks"

It also claims John Smith's new horseshoe logo resembles the Nike "swoosh".

Phoenix Nights star Kay plays an enthusiastic but inept football player in one of the TV adverts, which has further angered Nike.

The manufacturer said the "overweight and apparently unskilled" footballer Kay portrays is harming its image as the brand endorsed by top footballers like Eric Cantona and Ronaldo.

But the brewery accused Nike of lacking a sense of humour.

Scottish Courage's director, John Botia said: "They've also done a pretty god job of insulting a huge chunk of their customers. Do they think they're all budding David Beckhams?"

Published: 23 Oct 2002