In a troubling incident, Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks had his delivery van, containing 2,500 pies valued at approximately $30,000, stolen during a delivery. Following an appeal to the thieves to consider the Christmas spirit, the van was eventually recovered in Middlesbrough, but the pies were unfortunately too damaged to be consumed. Banks expressed his devastation over the theft and reiterated his appeal for the thieves to donate the pies instead. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by food vendors during the holiday season.