FOOTBALLER CHARGED WITH £3,500 DINE-AND-DASH THEFTS ACROSS LONDON

Michael Dome-Bemwin appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court accused of obtaining services dishonestly on six occasions. The 29-year-old centre-forward for Greengate District FC allegedly failed to pay for food and drinks across Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster between 29 January and 23 April this year. Dome-Bemwin denies all six charges. He appeared before District Judge Briony Clarke, speaking only to confirm his identity and enter his not guilty plea.

The alleged unpaid bills total £3,522.80, with the most substantial comprising two shots of Yamazaki malt whisky priced at £2,047. Other disputed invoices include £408.65 from a fine-dining venue in Westminster, £362.25 from one Kensington restaurant, £3,278.30 from another Kensington establishment, and £356.60 for Acqua Panna still water and whisky. A further bill for seven pints of lager cost £70. Dome-Bemwin's defence counsel, Stuart Harris, stated that his client accepts being present at the venues but has little recollection of the incidents.

The trial has been fixed for 7 December at Westminster Magistrates' Court, with Dome-Bemwin required to appear by 9:30am or face proceedings in his absence. Dome-Bemwin has previously played for National League club Braintree Town and Isthmian League Premier Division side Brentwood Town. He has also represented Lewes, Whitehawk, Enfield Town, Harrow Borough, Weymouth, Ashford United, Clapton, Park View and Margate.