‘Dine and dash’ customers walk out of family-run seafood restaurant after running up £600 bill

A family-run seafood restaurant in Bigbury, Devon, has reported that a group of six diners left without paying a bill totaling nearly £600, prompting a police investigation. The incident occurred on 25 July at The Oyster Shack, where the group of three men and three women ordered high-value items, including four £66 lobsters and a £120 fruits de mer platter. According to the restaurant, the customers exited the premises without settling their account, despite having received service throughout the evening. The restaurant owner, Kieron Vanstone, explained that staff attempted to contact the group using the phone number provided during the booking. However, the person who answered claimed they would return the call, and no further communication followed. In a social media post, the restaurant warned other businesses to remain alert to such incidents, emphasizing the emotional toll on staff who work diligently to offer quality service. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they are investigating the case, which has gained attention as part of a growing trend of “dine and dash” incidents across the UK. The restaurant noted that while it did not seek to shame the individuals involved, it aimed to raise awareness among other establishments about the risks posed by such behavior. The Oyster Shack shared that the group had not responded to repeated attempts to contact them and has now turned the matter over to law enforcement. The group reportedly departed in a black Range Rover, and a fellow diner recorded the vehicle’s registration plate. This information, along with other details, has been passed to the police. A spokesperson for the force stated that inquiries are ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward. The police have provided a reference number for those wishing to report tips related to the case. According to UKHospitality, a trade body representing the hospitality sector, dine-and-dash incidents have become increasingly common, with a third of operators experiencing such occurrences. The organization highlighted that these incidents place additional stress on businesses already struggling with operational pressures. In a recent statement, UKHospitality’s chair, Kate Nicholls, condemned the practice, stating that it is unacceptable and can create unsafe conditions for staff. The issue has prompted some restaurant owners to implement measures such as pre-payment systems for certain menu items. At Relentless Steak and Lobster House in Portsmouth, owner Scott Matthews introduced a policy requiring payment for drinks and starters following a series of similar incidents. One such case involved two men who allegedly consumed £130 worth of food before ordering additional items totaling £170 and then leaving without payment. Data from 22 police forces in England and Wales indicates that only 3% of reported dine-and-dash cases result in charges, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in gathering sufficient evidence. Some restaurant owners have taken matters into their own hands, utilizing social media platforms to share experiences and warn others about potential threats. The Oyster Shack’s social media message emphasized the personal impact of such incidents, noting that the staff felt betrayed and undervalued. The restaurant stressed that the goal was not to identify or accuse specific individuals but to encourage vigilance within the industry. As the police continue their investigation, the case serves as a reminder of the broader challenges confronting small businesses in the hospitality sector.