Police probe ‘hate crime’ letter sent to gay bakers
A COUPLE who run a popular bakery have been left shocked and angry after receiving a vile homophobic letter.
Police have launched a ‘hate crime’ investigation after Stephen Whyteside and husband Michael Burns received the note at their Lanarkshire shop.
Supposedly sent by a ‘customer’ the poison pen letter begins ‘Dear P***s’ and goes on: ‘If I had known you were f ****** gay, then I would have given your shop a wide berth.’
It adds: ‘I don’t want any of your hands near any food. You should be shut down.’
The writer then vows to return to the shop, Special Days Cakes, in Uddingston, to claim a full refund.
The couple, whose business designed the cake for singer Emeli Sandé’s wedding in 2012, have posted the letter on social media in an effort to identify the culprit. Mr Whyteside said: ‘I laughed when I first saw it. It was so ridiculous, I thought it was a fake.
‘But when it sunk in, I realised that it was actually a hate crime. I didn’t sleep very well last night.’
The 41-year-old added: ‘I could not imagine any of my customers sending a letter like that. Michael and I have been in business for 26 years.
‘Sure, you will always have someone with a negative view along the way but I can’t believe someone would write this in this day and age. ‘I was shocked.’ Staff who opened the letter immediately placed it in a plastic bag.
Mr Whyteside added: ‘I don’t know if they watch too much CSI: Miami but their actions may have preserved vital evidence. The police are taking it very seriously. They will test the letter for fingerprints and DNA.’
Mr Burns launched an appeal on social media to find the culprit.
The 52-year-old asked other users: ‘Anyone recognise this handwriting?
‘Got this sent to my shop today. I’m not ashamed whatsoever about my sexuality.’
Last night, Police Scotland confirmed a probe was under way. A spokesman said: ‘A complaint was received yesterday and inquiries are ongoing into this hate crime.’
The couple’s business boasts a host of famous and well-heeled clients.
They are also currently discussing a possible appearance on the television show Come Dine with Me.
Mr Whyteside added that he felt sorry for his shocked members of staff, who opened the letter this week.
‘I didn’t sleep very well’