A York business became the latest target of a smash-and-grab raid during the early hours of this morning.
Pairings Wine Bar, on Castlegate, had its glass front door smashed by a brick, and its till system completely ripped out.
The incident occurred at around 3 AM, with two suspects making off on bikes with the till drawer.
Fortunately, the till drawer was empty, but co-owner Kate Latham believes the damage caused will cost the independent business up to five thousand pounds in repairs.
She was notified of the burglary just before 7 AM, as staff arrived to open up.
North Yorkshire Police followed shortly after and have been gathering evidence this morning.
There’s CCTV footage of the incident, and the eatery is appealing for anyone who may have additional footage or information to come forward.
Kate has been left feeling frustrated and believes the recent string of break-ins appear to be targeting York’s local businesses.
She said to YorkMix, “how many other small, independent businesses need to be targeted before these people are caught?”
The news follows other incidents in the city centre, including a similar break-in at SOPHiE coffee shop on Lendal Bridge earlier this month.
Thieves gained entry through the back door and stole donations meant for the York Hospital Children’s Ward.
Seventeen stalls at York Christmas Markets were also broken into on 14 December, with cash stolen and locks broken.
Businesses on Bishopthorpe Road, The Shambles, and Micklegate have also been affected by break-ins over the last few months.
“Hospitality struggles as it is, nevermind having to deal with this on top of it,” Kate added.
The incident prevented Pairings from opening at midday as usual, but the business hopes to resume normal operations later today.
North Yorkshire Police released this statement in regard to the break in:
“Police were called just before 7am on the morning of 27 January following reports of a break-in at a wine bar on Castlegate in York.
“The incident is under investigation and anyone with any information about the break-in should call the police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“Please quote reference 12250015882 when passing on information.”