A bagel shop opposite Romford Station saw its application to sell hot food turned down at last week’s planning meeting.

Wacky Bagels had applied for a licence to install a grill, doner kebab pole and deep fat fryer, and to serve hot food in the evenings.

But the Met submitted a written concern to the council that pub- and clubgoers queuing for hot food late at night could become easy targets for criminals.

Cllr Fred Thompson (Conservative, Romford Town) countered that crime would happen regardless of whether or not hot food were served at a bagel shop, and that there could in fact be safety in numbers for those waiting for food.

During discussions, Cllr Michael Deon Burton (Independent Residents, South Hornchurch) revealed he used to serve burgers from a van next to the station.

The application was refused by seven votes to four.