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Pensioner Leslie Gilmer allegedly boarded the train with a standard ticket, but helped himself to the first-class wine and snacks trolley. His cheekiness did not go unnoticed, as Barrister Dr Peter Ellis spoke out after this took place five times.
Of course first-class food and drink is reserved for those who pay a first class ticket, so arguing ensued. After walking off, Gilmer returned to the carriage and stuck a £10 note in the barrister’s mouth.
He later told police at Exeter St David’s station that he chucked the note at Dr Ellis, a former hospital doctor and personal injury lawyer, but any physical contact was accidental.
Dr Ellis told the police Gilmer was in a row with train staff over poor toilets, which according to the Daily Mail were described as a ‘****ing disgrace’. After this he reportedly argued about receiving complimentary food and wine. Dr Ellis explained that Gilmer then kept returning to the first-class carriage for more help-himselfs.
On the fifth occasion, Dr Ellis spoke up and told Gilmer to use the buffet in his own carriage, as Gilmer was at this point quite inebriated.
He said Gilmer replied: “I am hungry, if you have a ****ing problem with that I will see you in court,” and walked off.
After this, the £10 ram ordeal took place.
Gilmer has now been found guilty of assault by beating by Exeter magistrates court.
He has been fined £650 and told to pay £840 court costs and £250 to Dr Ellis.
