Popular comedian Cally Beaton has publicly appealed for help after two men brazenly stole her handbag from a busy Central London restaurant while she was dining with a friend.
The 'Bend It Like Beckham' Theft Caught on Camera
The incident occurred on Monday, 29 December at a restaurant on Thayer Street in Marylebone. CCTV footage, which Ms Beaton shared on Instagram, reveals the slick, coordinated tactic employed by the two thieves. As the 56-year-old comedian sat chatting, one man used his foot to subtly hook the bag from under her chair and slide it away, in a move she later described as reminiscent of a footballer's skill.
"He bent it like Beckham," Ms Beaton joked, referencing the famous David Beckham technique. The man then walked towards the toilets, leaving the bag on the floor. Moments later, a second man entered the restaurant, sat in the recently vacated chair opposite, and calmly placed the bag into his own backpack before walking out.
A Coordinated Exit and a Public Appeal
The first thief then emerged from the toilet area and left the establishment, walking in the same direction as his accomplice. The entire theft was executed swiftly and in plain sight of other diners.
Sharing the CCTV on social media, Ms Beaton wrote: "Please watch and share this footage of these two lovely guys (faces clearly captured on CCTV) who as I sat catching up with a friend just now, stole my bag from under my chair... Maybe it will be shared widely enough they don’t get to do it to anyone else."
She praised the restaurant staff for their help following the robbery. Fortunately, the comedian, known for appearances on Live At The Apollo and Pointless Celebrities, had her phone in her coat pocket and had left her purse at home. However, she confirmed she lost a keyring of significant sentimental value in the theft.
Police Investigation Underway
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating the theft. A spokesperson said: “On Monday, 29 December at 5.07pm, police received an online report of theft, alleged to have occurred at a restaurant on Thayer Street, Westminster, earlier that day. A 56-year-old woman reported that her handbag had been stolen by two men. Enquiries are ongoing to identify the suspects, and anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting 01/8370099/25.”
The footage has garnered significant attention online, with BBC presenter Jeremy Vine quipping that the elaborate "dance move" cost Ms Beaton her belongings. The incident serves as a stark reminder for diners in busy city venues to remain vigilant with their personal possessions.
