Restaurant bosses have spoken out about the financial and mental health impact caused by dine and dash thieves, in a sector still affected by the pandemic and rising food prices.
Some have told the BBC they have experienced customers running off without paying or putting glass in food to avoid paying the full bill.
The trade body UKHospitality said a third of its surveyed members had experienced customers refusing to pay for their food.
The National Police Chiefs' Council said theft could have a significant impact on individuals, businesses and communities.
Amanda Brighton, director of Joe's Bar and Grill in Oxford, said her venue was recently targeted by a group who failed to pay.
