Mystery thief raises demand for 'ransom'

A mystery thief calling himself the "Pimpernel" who stole a picture from the gents' toilet of a county pub before e-mailing the owners with ransom demands has said he wants more cash - after reading an appeal in the Shropshire Star.

Tina Bindokas, owner of the Bell & Bails pub in St Georges, Telford, is now offering a free meal for two for anyone who can provide information on the identity of the thief.

The picture was one of two and cost just £1.99 from Dunelm, where bosses have offered to replace it for free. But Mrs Bindokas has turned down the offer and instead turned her attentions towards snaring the thief.

She said: "We have had another e-mail. In the message the person says he or she has noted the 'free publicity' we are getting and that the ransom will have to go up now as a result.

At the same time we are stepping up our search to unmask this person.

"We are now offering a reward of a free meal for two at the pub to anyone who can provide us with information leading to the identity of the Pimpernel."

The landlady said she was determined to retrieve the original picture, which depicts a seaside resort, adding: "There is a big problem with people stealing from pubs. Customers seem to think they can just take what they want.

"But essentially I am inviting people into my home and it's not on, so while there is a light-hearted side to this there is also a serious message too. I won't have people taking my stuff."

Anyone with information is urged to call the pub on (01952) 615144.