McDonald's Essex customers stole other people's food

The incident saw a car driven along the drive-through of the McDonald’s in Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, on May 4.

Food was ordered but when they arrived at the payment window their debit card was declined, it is understood.

The driver then parked up at the restaurant, opposite Leisure World, and two men and a woman walked inside at about 5.25am.

Targeted - the McDonald's restaurant in Cowdray Avenue (Image: Newsquest)

They then proceeded to grab another person’s order from the counter and made-off with it.

An Essex Police spokeswoman said its officers have started investigating what happened.

“We were called to McDonald’s in Cowdray Avenue in Colchester on May 4 following reports of a theft,” she said.

“The suspects, two men and one woman, entered the fast food restaurant at about 5.25am, stealing food from behind the counter before running out.

Disappointed - restaurant owner Craig Newnes inside the McDonald's (Image: Newsquest)

“This report remains under investigations and inquiries are underway. No arrests have been made at this stage.”

The incident has been condemned by bosses at the fast food restaurant who have vowed to help catch those involved.

A McDonald’s spokeswoman said: “We are aware of an incident at our Colchester restaurant where customers collected food which they had not paid for.

“It is extremely disappointing and unacceptable to see customers behaving in this way.

Appeal - Colchester councillor Darius Laws asked any witnesses to contact the police

“The police were called and we will support them with their inquiries.”

Colchester councillor Darius Laws, who admitted being partial to a quarter pounder with cheese from the restaurant, called on any witnesses to the incident to contact the police.

He said: “This sort of dishonesty must be a rarity in Colchester but I would urge anyone with any information to get in touch with the fantastic team at McDonald's Cowdray Avenue or Essex Police.”