A café in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent, has reported the disappearance of nearly 20 mugs over the course of a week, prompting an appeal for their return. Westport Lake café, which recently acquired a batch of 45 mugs, found that 19 had gone missing without explanation.

Co-owner Joanne Upton expressed surprise at the situation, noting that she did not expect customers to take mugs from the business. In an effort to deter further losses, the café had even offered the mugs for sale, but the thefts have continued.

Upton recounted an incident where a customer was seen pouring out their drink, wiping the mug with a napkin, and then leaving the premises while carrying it. She encouraged anyone who may have taken a mug inadvertently to return it, assuring them that they would be welcomed back without judgment.

This issue is part of a broader pattern of items disappearing from the café, including toilet paper, salt and pepper shakers, and cutlery. Although the police have not been involved, the losses have impacted the café’s operations and prompted the business to appeal directly to its patrons for help in resolving the matter.