Bistro: You can't have any pudding until you sign our waiver

LONDON (AFP) – A London restaurant has asked diners to sign a legal waiver before tucking in to their traditional Christmas pudding in case they hurt themselves on the silver charms inside, it emerged Thursday.

The owners of High Timber, located on the River Thames in the City of London financial district, said they were advised to draw up the indemnity form by lawyers who regularly dine there.

"It has created a bit of a stir in the restaurant and people looked at it disbelieving at first," said co-owner Neleen Strauss.

"I thought it was going to be a pain but decided to do it to cover my backside.

"We're based in the City so a lot of my customers are lawyers and they suggested it. It is a bit crazy but I decided to take their advice."

The waiver says: "I absolve entirely High Timber from all blame or liability should I come to any harm including, but not limited to, a chipped tooth, or any injury as a result of swallowing it."

Christmas pudding, a festive favourite in Britain, is a steamed dessert made with dried fruit, nuts, spices and brandy.

It is common to put several charms or coins in the pudding which are believed to bring prosperity in the New Year to the person who finds them.