DINERS at an Oriental restaurant will no longer have to pay for ice cubes after the management melted under the pressure and agreed to waive the charge.

Legislation brought in last April means it is now illegal for restaurants and pubs to make people pay for tap water if it is readily available, but at Yoe Bo in Orpington it used to set people back 20p.

This is because when a customer asks for tap water at the eaterie in the High Street it comes with two ice cubes, which can legally be charged for.

The issue first came to light when David Kirby-Smith, of Leamington Avenue, Orpington, treated a friend to a meal at the restaurant.

When the bill arrived, he was impressed with the price of the food but noticed a charge for iced water.

After querying the 20p charge he was told the price was clearly marked on the menu.

The menu did display a charge for tap water with ice, but Mr Kirby-Smith did not ask for ice.

After an investigation by the News Shopper and being visited by Bromley Council’s licensing officers the restaurant has agreed to stop charging for any tap water with or without ice.

Mr Kirby-Smith said: "I think it is excellent news.

"It took a little effort and time to get the issue raised but the outcome should benefit others who will no longer be conned into paying for what should be normal service.

"I hope this has made people aware of their rights."