Chinatown restaurant issues CCTV appeal after customer literally RUNS away without paying

Daisy Jackson Daisy Jackson Noodle Alley in Chinatown has issued a CCTV appeal on a dine-and-dash customer

Noodle Alley, a cosy restaurant in Chinatown, has shared CCTV footage of a customer literally running away with an unpaid bill.

The noodle bar is famed for its spicy dishes, hailing from co-owner Wendy Ren’s native Sichuan province.

It’s become a firm favourite in Manchester’s Chinatown since launching in 2023 – but the team have been left stung by a customer dine-and-dash this week.

And it’s the most literal case of a dine-and-dash we’ve ever seen, with CCTV footage shared by Noodle Alley showing the moment the customer sprints out the door, with impressive speed for a man in sliders.

The video also shows the staff chasing the runaway customer, to no avail.

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In a heartfelt statement shared online, Noodle Alley said that ‘every meal matters’ when small businesses like theirs are struggling with rising costs.

They also said that the CCTV has been sent to the police in the hopes of catching the man.

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In their full statement, Noodle Alley wrote: “Today, someone ran away from our restaurant without paying.

“This isn’t just about the money. Small independent businesses are already struggling with rising costs, and dealing with people who deliberately run away without paying makes it even harder.

“Every meal, every member of staff, and every genuine customer matters.

“Our team reacted immediately and tried to catch him, but he disappeared within seconds.

“We have a very clear CCTV image of the individual, and all the evidence has been passed to the relevant authorities.

“To everyone who chooses to support small independent businesses like ours, thank you. Your kindness and support help keep businesses like ours going.”

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Featured image: The Manc Group

Manchester United announce plans for first permanent fan zone at Old Trafford

Danny Jones Danny Jones New Man United fan zone at Old Trafford stadium

Manchester United have revealed the first glimpse at a brand-new fan zone at Old Trafford – the first permanent one of its kind at the ground.

Dubbed ‘The Paddock’ in a nod to the club’s history, the official Man United supporter park is due to open later this year.

Set to be fully unveiled just metres from the Stretford End, the aim is to make it “the closest place to the stadium to enjoy great local food, drink, and lively entertainment.”

The new addition comes after recent consultations with regular season ticket holders who want a dedicated and club-sanctioned space to enjoy themselves before, during and after fixtures.

As you can see from the brief look we’ve now gotten at the fan park, which will be able to hold approximately 1,300 Reds, The Paddock will revolve around food and drink – including some self-service bars – as well as space for live music and other entertainment.

We know the above image is only a little artist’s mock-up, but you can picture local grassroots musicians who support the team being given the opportunity to play the stage, etc.

Rick McGagh, Director of Fan Engagement at United, said: “We’re delighted that in partnership with Levy, we have implemented a wide range of changes to enhance matchdays, bringing greater choice and better service for supporters across the stadium – something fans have told us they want.”

An official statement goes on to read that “the proposed fan zone is the latest example of our continued investment in the atmosphere, fan experience and facilities at Old Trafford, while progressing plans for a new world-class stadium.”

Speaking of which, we recently got more details on where exactly ‘New Trafford’ (not a confirmed title, just FYI) will sit in relation to the existing Theatre of Dreams.

Location for new Manchester United stadium announced after club secures land for the build
Wharfside will look VERY different in the years to come.

Obviously, all of this news comes as somewhat temporary by default given that we now know the vision of Man United’s new stadium is finally starting to move forward.

However, it is nevertheless good news for matchgoers looking for places to spend extended periods near the venue when going to a game.

At present, this is all still subject to full planning permission, but with former Old Trafford Regeneration Taskforce Members and Greater Manchester Mayor turned Prime Minister Andy Burnham now at the helm, you’d expect something like this to pass through smoothly and quickly.

With an autumn opening date currently set for the opening of The Paddock, it will be interesting to see how well-attended it is given some of the recent sentiments and frustrations surrounding many of the most loyal and dedicated Man United fans.

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Featured Images — Publicity picture (via Manchester United FC)/The Manc Group

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