Liverpool-based chef Andy Sheridan and his business partner Sam Morgan are currently dealing with a distressing situation as they report being targeted by individuals attempting to extort a significant sum of £2,000. As reported by BBC Radio 4’s You and Yours, the extortionists have also threatened to tarnish the reputation of Sheridan and Morgan with fabricated negative reviews if their demands are not met.
Sheridan and Morgan, proprietors of the acclaimed Restaurant 8 on Cook Street, Restaurant OXA in Wirral, The Bracebridge in Birmingham, and Black and Green in Worcestershire, have spoken publicly about the ordeal. Andy Sheridan, known for his appearances on esteemed television programmes such as the Great British Menu and Come Dine with Me The Professionals, expressed their frustration, stating that they are simply “two individuals striving to earn a living.”
The distressing situation began with the receipt of a message via their restaurant’s WhatsApp booking service, in which the culprits demanded a significant sum of money. Upon refusal to comply, the perpetrators proceeded to publish a false one-star review and raised their demand to an astonishing £2,500.
The bogus reviews left by the extortionists were swiftly identified by Andy Sheridan and Sam Morgan, as they referenced items not featured on the menu at Restaurant 8. Sheridan underscored the falsely stated “poor and overpriced wine list” and lauded a non-existent chef named Jake, exposing the fraudulent nature of the review.
In expressing his dismay, Andy Sheridan remarked, “There will be some individuals who will acquiesce out of fear. We are already under significant strain due to numerous responsibilities, and now we are faced with an individual attempting to take advantage of us, which is deeply personal.”
This troubling incident sheds light on the formidable challenges encountered by small business proprietors, who often lack the resources to combat malicious attempts aimed at undermining their livelihoods.
The situation facing Andy Sheridan and Sam Morgan serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of small businesses in the face of online threats and targeted attacks. It is imperative that we demonstrate solidarity with entrepreneurs such as Sheridan and Morgan, who display unwavering dedication to their craft and labor diligently to provide exceptional experiences to their patrons. It is crucial for authorities to address such criminal behaviour to safeguard the integrity of businesses and protect them from unwarranted extortion attempts.