Sidmouth businesses warned after scammers target restaurants

Business owners in Sidmouth are being warned to stay vigilant after reports that a group are eating at local pubs and restaurants and then leaving without paying.

In a statement from Devon and Cornwall Police: "We have received a number of reports from business owners across East Devon that involve a white male (late twenties) who is frequenting restaurants and campsites with an adult female and three children (one girl and two boys) creating civil disputes over services offered.

"In the case of the restaurants he is offering payment via a cheque and only a cheque which many businesses no longer accept. When this payment method is refused, the male states he has no alternative means of payment and will complain about service/quality of food. This creates a civil dispute.

"Please be mindful to establish payment methods before offering your service and report any concerns of similar activity to Police.

"Each incident will be individually reviewed to establish if there are any criminal offences."