Stolen Pies Bring Out the Best in Michelin-Starred Chef
The Heist
A van containing $30,000 worth of pies, baked by Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks, was stolen from a business park in Ripon, northern Britain. The refrigerated van was filled with 2,500 pies, including varieties such as steak and ale, turkey and butternut squash.
A Plea from the Chef
Banks appealed to the thieves in an Instagram video, asking them to donate the pies to people in need. He said, "I know you’re a criminal, but maybe just do something nice because it’s Christmas and maybe we can feed a few thousand people with these pies that you’ve stolen, do the right thing."
A Call to Action
The chef acknowledged that it was unlikely the thieves would return the van, but urged them to "drop the pies off somewhere" so they can be given "to people who need food and they are not wasted." He also asked members of the public who are offered pies with his branding from someone who is not him to report them to the police.
A Message to the Thieves
Banks had a less forgiving message for the thieves themselves, saying, "I hope you don’t get any presents this Christmas."
Conclusion
While the theft of the pies is a setback for Chef Banks, his reaction highlights the importance of community and kindness during the holiday season. By appealing to the thieves to donate the pies, Banks is not only ensuring that the pies do not go to waste, but also showing that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for compassion and generosity.
FAQs
Q: How many pies were stolen?
A: 2,500 pies were stolen from the refrigerated van.
Q: What kind of fillings did the pies have?
A: The pies had a variety of fillings, including steak and ale, turkey and butternut squash.
Q: Where did the van get stolen from?
A: The van was stolen from a business park in Ripon, northern Britain.
Q: What is Chef Banks’ background?
A: Chef Banks is a Michelin-starred chef and a veteran judge on British cooking show "The Great British Menu".
