Crime · Hammersmith ·
CCTV shows bouquet taken from florist's pavement display on King Street, Hammersmith
Footage from a florist on King Street in Hammersmith appears to show a large pink and white bouquet being lifted from its outdoor display. The shop says the flowers were not paid for.
A florist on King Street in Hammersmith says one of its largest bouquets was taken from its outdoor display without being paid for. CCTV footage of the moment has been shared with UB1UB2.
The person who sent the footage said it happened on Monday 2 November. The clip appears to show someone in a dark hooded jacket, carrying a yellow bag, stopping at the arrangements set out on the pavement in front of the shop.
What the footage shows
In the clip, the person bends down and looks over the bouquets, which are lined up on the pavement beside the shop's doorway. A display of lilac flowers hangs nearby.
They then lift out a large pink and white bouquet, one of the biggest in the display, and leave with it.
The person who shared the footage said the flowers were not paid for. The shop's name has not been given, and no value has been put on the bouquet.
Police not yet involved
It is not yet known whether the incident has been reported to the Metropolitan Police. Police have not confirmed any details, and no arrests have been reported.
Anyone who saw what happened on King Street that day, or who has information, can contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 or report it online through the Met's website. Call 999 if a crime is happening now. Information can also be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A risk for high street traders
King Street is Hammersmith's main shopping street. It runs west from the town centre towards Ravenscourt Park and is lined with independent shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as larger chains.
Florists, greengrocers and other traders on busy streets often put stock out on the pavement to draw in passers-by. Many shopkeepers say it brings in trade but also leaves goods open to being taken while staff are busy inside.
Business owners who have stock taken can report it to the police, even when the value is low. Keeping CCTV footage, with its date and time, makes it easier for officers to follow up any report.
UB1UB2 will update this report if police confirm any details.