Gordon Ramsay's nightmare! £13 million pub taken over by squatters threatening legal action

ok.co.uk:

Gordon Ramsay's £13m London pub has been invaded by squatters.The York & Albany, a Grade II-listed hotel and gastropub near Regent's Park, which is currently on the market for a cool £13 million, has been taken over by at least six squatters, according to The Sun.The squatters have barricaded themselves inside, boarding up the windows and posting a "legal warning" to justify their occupation.

Photos reveal one squatter catching some zzz's on a sofa in the bar, amidst a scattering of rubbish. On Saturday morning, 13 April, two squatters clad in black tracksuits and masks made a swift exit from the property, scarpering before reporters could get a word in.

A notice stuck to the door declared the group's right to occupy the venue, arguing it wasn't a "residential building" and thus fell under 2012 legislation that criminalises squatting in residential buildings.

Signed by "The Occupiers", the note read: "Take notice that we occupy this property and at all times there is at least one person in occupation." It warned against any attempts to enter without permission, threatening prosecution for anyone resorting to violence or threats. "You may receive a sentence of up to six months' imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000." "That if you want to get us out you will have to issue a claim for possession in the County Court or in the High Court." A sign outside the property pleading for charitable donations of "food and clothes or anything else you no longer want or need" brought attention to the situation.The law in the UK doesn't consider squatting in non-residential properties illegal, but other crimes like damages or theft can be prosecuted.The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: "Police were made aware of squatters at.