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Harrogate restaurant owner's 'cheese chase' receives national attention

Friday, 3 January 2025 08:53

William and Victoria owner David Straker has been tracking cheese thieves. (Image: @WilliamandVictoria via Facebook)

A story about a Harrogate restaurant owner who is chasing a cheese thief around the town is receiving national attention.

David Straker, who owns William and Victoria, planted an AirTag on a wheel of brie to track down thieves who have been stealing the venue’s cheese deliveries for “years.”

The 56-year-old then spent three weeks following the cheese’s movement around Harrogate and the surrounding areas in a bid to catch the thief red-handed.

And the story is piquing interest nationally, having been featured in The Times, The Telegraph and Daily Mail.

David, who owns the restaurant alongside his wife Johanna, planted the AirTag in the wrapper of some brief cheese on Friday 6th December.

Shortly after it was delivered at 7:25am, a hooded thief appeared to steal the cheese from its box.

David watched as the cheese was taken to locations around Harrogate, Knaresborough, Otley and Menston.

He decided against approaching properties after discovering one smelt of a "certain substance."

It’s estimated that the business has lost between £300 and £400 over the past year through cheese thefts.

Speaking about the cheese theft, a spokesperson for William and Victoria said:

“This theft has a cost: not just to us, but to the many independent businesses trying to make ends meet.

“Hospitality is a cornerstone of our community, and we need your support—not just to stay afloat but to thrive.

“So, next time you see a suspicious cyclist with a backpack full of dairy, spare a thought for us and our lost brie. And remember: crime might pay, but cheese always costs.”

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