A family-run food shop in Evesham, Worcestershire, was shocked to discover that one of their potted plants was stolen by a shameless thief who waved at the CCTV camera before taking it away. The incident happened on August 14, 2023, and was captured on video by the security system of the Food to Go store.
Thief smells the plant before walking away with it
The CCTV footage shows the man walking across the street towards the shop, where he spots a row of begonias that are used for decoration on the terrace. He then waves at the camera, picks up one of the plants, smells it, and casually walks away with it. The owners of the shop, David and Caroline Davis, noticed that one of their plants was missing and checked the video to find out what happened.
Owners follow a trail of petals but lose track of the thief
David, 52, said that they have never had any issues with thefts in the four years that they have run the business. He said that they were appalled by the thief’s audacity and disrespect. He added that his wife Caroline, 44, followed a trail of petals that led across the street, but it ended abruptly, suggesting that the thief escaped in a car. He said that they reported the incident to the police, but have not heard anything back.
Police appeal for information to identify the suspect
The West Mercia Police confirmed that they received a report of a theft of a plant from a shop in Evesham on August 14. They said that they are investigating the incident and are appealing for anyone who recognises the suspect or has any information to contact them. They described the suspect as a white male, aged between 30 and 40, with short dark hair and a beard. He was wearing a blue T-shirt, black trousers, and white trainers.
Shop owners appeal for public support to find their plant
David and Caroline said that they are not concerned about the value of the plant, which was only about £30, but rather about the fact that they have grown it themselves and used it to brighten up their shop. They said that they are hoping that someone will recognise the thief and help them get their plant back. They also posted the CCTV footage on Facebook and asked their followers to share it and identify the individual. They said that they are grateful for the public support and sympathy that they have received so far.
