Diner in court for string of 'dine and dash crimes' at gastropubs and hotels across East Anglia

A MAN who allegedly carried out a string of "dine and dash" crimes at gastro pubs and hotels across East Anglia has appeared in court.

Alan Rogers, 46, allegedly carried out a series of offences after failing to foot the bill for extravagant meals and drinks while entertaining a blonde girlfriend.

He chose not to enter a plea when he appeared before magistrates in Ipswich, Suffolk on Friday charged with three counts of fraud by false representation.

Magistrates decided the case was too serious for them to review and bailed Rogers until his next appearance at Ipswich Crown Court on July 23.

Prosecutors planned to submit a schedule of 15 other similar offences to be taken into consideration, the court was told.

Last November, Suffolk Police announced they were hunting a couple who had been wining and dining in eateries across the country without paying their bill.

Rogers, of Hadleigh, Suffolk, was later arrested alongside a 43-year-old woman.

The pair were quizzed and later released under investigation.

The woman was then released without charge and faced no further action, police said.

Hotel and restaurant bosses across Suffolk and Norfolk revealed how they had been fleeced by the couple after their payment declined on genuine bank cards.

The pair would leave upon the promise that the man would return to settle the bill – but he never did.

The father of two stands accused of "at least 18 offences where he and his friend have consumed alcohol and food and on occasions stayed in residence without paying anything at all," prosecutor Colette Harper said.

"This is not suitable for summary trial. It involves a large number of victims over a period of time and a substantial amount of money."

Rogers is believed to have racked up a bill of £11,226.30 after leaving numerous venues without making legitimate payment.

The offences allegedly took place last year in Norwich between July 22 and November 18, in Aldeburgh, Suffolk, on September 5 and in Ipswich on September 10.

The court heard that the potential cases to be taken into consideration tot up to a further £2,285.

Rogers was photographed heading into court with a blonde woman who watched the proceedings from the public gallery.

He spoke only to confirm his name, address, and date of birth during the short hearing.

He is understood to be entering his pleas when appears at Crown Court.

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