First night out in Durham for more than 8 months. All professionals together having a great time. Been to Bells in the city many many times and never experienced a meal below near perfect. However, whilst ordering at 1940hrs on 11th December 2021, a female member of staff walked through from the restaurant to the takeaway side, and ordered 2 customers out of the stop! They weren’t with my party, but they were simply happy, singing and in good spirits! After all, it’s Christmas, what would one expect? She was offensive! She then told everyone in the shop that singing is banned!! We were appalled, drink wasn’t a factor for me, I remember the event clearly, hence I mention the time, so that the owner can check their CCTV. I was discussing the event with one of my friends while waiting for our food, when the female again returned to the counter and said, “If you want food, then I suggest you stop taking about me!’ I asked if she was the owner, to which she replied “No”. As this was recorded on my friends mobile phone, I wouldn’t be surprised to see it on YouTube. Overall, great food, very very poor staff! I hope the owner follows this up. This happened in the Restaurant in Market Place, Durham.