UMVA has learned that a flock of cunning seagulls in Norwich has been wreaking havoc on the outdoor terrace of a popular Wetherspoons pub, leaving customers fuming and foodless.
The Glasshouse Wetherspoons pub has been plagued by the thieving birds, which have been swooping down to snatch meals from unsuspecting diners, prompting the management to take a firm stance on the issue.
A stern warning on the pub's exterior now reads: 'Seagulls!! Please do not leave your food unattended at anytime. We are unable to refund or recook any meals that are taken by seagulls.' This new policy has sparked a heated debate among customers, with some calling it unfair and others agreeing that it's up to individuals to protect their food.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that customer Isla Gardner, 19, from Thorpe Hamlet, believes it's only fair that customers should receive a refund if they can prove the birds stole their food. 'It's unfair not to refund them,' she said.
On the other hand, 78-year-old Gillian Nobbs thinks it's the pub's responsibility to keep the birds at bay, saying: 'If a pub has outdoor seating, they should do something to get rid of the birds. It's not the responsibility of the customers to keep the birds away, it's the responsibility of the business.'
However, regular Wetherspoons customer Steve Everritt, 76, disagrees, saying that it's up to individuals to guard their food. 'I would agree it's down to the individual to guard their food. It's a natural attraction. The pub are doing as much as they can, they aren’t responsible.'
As summer approaches and the seagulls become more aggressive, Wetherspoons is reportedly exploring additional measures to deter the birds and protect its customers' meals. The Great Black-backed Gull, found in Norfolk, can grow up to 30 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 5.5 ft, making them a formidable foe for diners.
