Used in casual, informal situations. Not suitable for formal writing or speeches. At parties, someone might joke about doing a runner to avoid cleaning up.
Pro Tip 2/3
Negative Connotation
Implies dishonesty or irresponsible behavior. Used when someone avoids responsibility. He was supposed to help with the project, but he did a runner.
Pro Tip 3/3
UK Specific
Commonly used in the UK, might not be understood or used in other English-speaking countries. In the US, people were confused when I said he did a runner from the bar.