Chef Banks Appeals for Return of Stolen Pies

Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks has publicly appealed to thieves who stole a van containing 2,500 pies, urging them to donate the stolen goods to those in need. The van, which disappeared from Barker Business Park near Ripon, was loaded with pies intended for the York Christmas Market, valued at approximately £25,000. Banks, who owns restaurants in North Yorkshire and is a judge on the Great British Menu, stressed the importance of preventing food waste, especially during the holiday season. He highlighted that the pies, labeled with his name, would be difficult to sell and has asked anyone offered these pies by unknown individuals to report it to the police. Meanwhile, North Yorkshire Police are investigating the theft, and Banks plans to introduce a new pie flavor as a temporary replacement for the stolen stock.