I've only once ever complained when friends suggested splitting the bill. Pop up Turkish place in London, I was working late, then they moved our table time so they could get another sitting in after us, so by the time I got there everyone already had their mains, having had starters and at least two drinks each - some of which were cocktails.

They needed the table, so wouldn't let me order a main. I got a beer, and a pitta bread and dips starter - £12 total.

That was fine for me. Bill comes, mate who booked it counts up, we all owe £60 including tip. I was tired and irritated, put £15 down and said that's all I can do. Cue uproar as they "now had to calculate it all again".

Sorry, but I'm not paying for all your stuff. One of them said "well, your fault for being late", only half-joking.

I did notice that next time we went out - to a gastropub type place - everyone went up and ordered individually.