Absolutely Fabulous star Jane Horrocks has issued a warning after her luggage was stolen by train passengers who did not have a ticket. The 62-year-old actress, best known for playing Bubble in the BBC sitcom, was travelling from Manchester to London when her suitcase was swiped.
Incident Details
Horrocks criticised train firm Avanti West Coast, claiming they were not protecting their customers. She said two people without tickets were allowed to remain on the train and then stole her suitcase. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she wrote to her 13,000 followers: 'Do be careful travelling on @AvantiWestCoast trains. I was travelling from Manchester to London recently, and two people without a ticket were allowed to remain on the train. They then stole my suitcase. It's a thing apparently. Shame on Avanti for not protecting their customers.'
Police Investigation
When Avanti West Coast replied asking if she had reported the issue to the British Transport Police (BTP), she confirmed she had. A BTP spokesperson said: 'British Transport Police officers are investigating after a woman reported that her suitcase had been stolen on a Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston train at around 2.50pm on Sunday 14 June. Enquiries are ongoing.' An Avanti West Coast spokesperson added: 'We are aware of the incident and are supporting the British Transport Police with their enquiries.'
Public Reaction
Many followers expressed concern and support. One said: 'Sorry your case was stolen & the comments made re looking after luggage. The problem people is that you have a seat, there is no room at the seat near or around it to store a suitcase.' Another added: 'I've always been nervous about luggage storage on trains. You often have to leave it out of sight of where you're sitting, so anyone could take it at an intermediate stop and you'd be none the wiser.' A third person criticised Avanti: 'Two thieves allowed to stay on a train they have no ticket for? Then steal the luggage of a passenger.' However, a fourth commented: 'Theft is never acceptable, but is it the train provider's responsibility to guard your private property?'
Other Celebrity Thefts
Horrocks is not the only famous figure to suffer luggage theft on a train this year. Broadcasting legend Edith Bowman was left in tears after her suitcase, containing her grandfather's ashes, was stolen while travelling from London to Cheltenham in February. She said: 'I've just realised what's in my bag is a jewellery box, and in that jewellery box are some really lovely personal things. In particular, a pinkie ring that's got my grandad's ashes in it.' Bowman was later reunited with her suitcase, but it was empty.
