A GLASGOW bar has defended its decision to pay viral sensation Denise Ferrie’s fines after huge public backlash.

Bar Budda on Sauchiehall Street said on Monday it would pick up the tab for the Coatbridge woman after her arrest on Easter Sunday.

The popular Sauchiehall Street venue started a “free our lollipop” campaign on social media after her sold-out gig at the bar two days ago.

READ MORE: Glasgow venue offers to pay Denise Ferrie fines after arrest

However, the bar was blasted online for its decision as many questioned why the money was instead not given to local, charitable causes.

In a statement on Facebook, bar bosses said: “Bar Budda would like to say that in no way do we condone any kind of criminality - but we would also like to say we believe everyone needs help at some point and everyone deserves a second chance.

“We actively help the homeless, do charity events, sponsor local football teams and local boxers. We will continue with all our sponsorship of people helping out when and wherever we can.

“Those of you who are hating us for helping people get a second chance in life should maybe realise we all need a little help sometimes.”

In just four hours, the post has had over 2,000 reactions - but the venue’s actions are continuing to divide the public.

One woman said: “I know Denise personally and that girl has had one hard life. About time she got a break from the s***. Give the girl a break. People would rather see other people fail than build them up.”

One man, however, hit back: “My issue with this is, if she hadn’t been seen doing this video at the grave, would you still of helped her if police walked into bar and lifted her?”

READ MORE: My Boy Lollipop star 'arrested' following sell-out gig

The bar’s statement comes a day after the Evening Times reported on a widely-shared online video which appeared to show Denise being taken into a police van after her sold-out gig at Bar Budda.

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: “Police can confirm a 33-year-old woman was arrested at Bar Buddha on Sauchiehall Street on Sunday, April 1 2018 in connection with a number of outstanding warrants.”

Denise had been set to appear at Airdrie Sheriff Court today.

Denise first became a well-known face last week after a video appeared online showing her singing her unique version of Millie Small’s 1965 hit “My Boy Lollipop” at a graveside.