Keith Cheeseman, also known as ‘The Big Cheese’ for his criminal activities, openly discusses his past encounters with notable figures such as The Krays and George Best. Notably, he was convicted for orchestrating Britain’s largest bank heist in 1990, stealing bearer bonds valued at £850 million today.
Currently residing in retirement on the Turkish Riviera at 83, Cheeseman reflects on his previous exploits in a Crime+Investigation documentary titled Heist: Robbing the Bank of England, alongside Marcel Theroux. The 1990 robbery, dubbed ‘The biggest bank heist no one has heard of,’ left Theroux astounded by its magnitude and lack of prior recognition.
In the early 1970s, Cheeseman enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, driving a Lamborghini, mingling with celebrities, and owning Dunstable Town after failing a trial as a soccer striker. Despite his criminal convictions, he views himself more as a cunning businessman than a traditional gangster, citing his disdain for banks and their practices.
During his incarceration for the bank heist, Cheeseman crossed paths with infamous figures like the Krays and the Richardson brothers, sharing anecdotes of their interactions. Despite his controversial past, he recalls his time in prison with relative comfort, emphasizing his ability to navigate the system due to his influence and resources.
Reflecting on his life of crime, Cheeseman acknowledges the intriguing individuals he has encountered but distances himself from the label of a gangster, preferring to be seen as a shrewd operator who capitalized on opportunities presented by financial institutions. The documentary Heist: Robbing the Bank of England, featuring Cheeseman’s story, premieres on Crime+Investigation on Monday, 3rd November.