14-year-old admits robbing Ledbury diners during London riots

A 14-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to robbing diners at the two-Michelin-starred Ledbury restaurant in Notting Hill during the riots this summer.

The Inner London crown court heard that he and 13 other youths barged into the restaurant in the middle of service.

According to food blogger Naked Sushi, who was dining in the restaurant at the time, there were loud bangs before the restaurant was overrun. "The restaurant staff were yelling at us to get away from the windows. Before I knew it, the front door - a solid piece of glass - shattered and people came crashing in with hoodies, masks, and random weapons," the blogger said.

She added that diners were threatened and robbed before Ledbury staff chased away the gang with rolling pins, pans and other kitchen utensils.

According to the Evening Standard the 14-year-old admitted conspiracy to commit violent disorder and robbery. The other youths admitted a variety of offences including robbery, conspiring to commit burglary and violent disorder.

Ledbury chef-patron Brett Graham said the attack had come as a complete surprise but praised his staff who went beyond the call of duty. "The team were absolutely amazing," he said.

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By James Stagg

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