A baker from Capel-le-Ferne near Folkestone has been forced to install CCTV and alarms after a series of thefts from her honesty cake shed. Emma Burton, 46, runs The Capel Cake Shed from her back garden, where customers are trusted to leave £2.50 per slice in a cash box. Despite doorbell cameras, thieves stole cakes on four occasions, causing about £100 in losses.
The first theft occurred on February 15, prompting Mrs Burton to add a second doorbell camera. Three further raids followed on May 5 and May 31. Footage shows thieves using hoods, a T-shirt to cover their faces, and plastic bags to carry away the goods. Bizarrely, the cash box was left untouched.
Mrs Burton said she was 'disgusted' by the thefts, describing them as 'pure greed', but vowed to continue the honesty policy. She noted that 99.9% of customers pay, and one woman even donated ingredients after hearing about the thefts. Kent Police are investigating and have urged anyone with information to call 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/74194/26.
