Shop guard punched in face over ID incident

SHOCKED STAFF CONDEMN THE ACTIONS OF CUSTOMER

A SUPERMARKET security guard was “punched in the face” following an incident involving a customer’s ID.

The incident happened on Friday at the Co-op supermarket in Station Road, Castle Donington, according to Central England Co-operative.

A customer became aggressive after being asked to present ID to collect a parcel from another colleague, according to a spokesman for the supermarket giant.

This led to the security guard being allegedly punched in the face.

The spokesman said the security guard was not left with any serious injuries and is recovering at home.

The retailer has condemned the violence, and is reinforcing its message that this kind of incident will not be tolerated.

Craig Goldie, loss prevention manager, said: “Everyone at Central England Co-op was shocked and appalled by yet another unacceptable incident in Castle Donington on Friday.

“We strongly condemn any form of abuse or violence towards our colleagues who are just doing their job and are working closely with the police force in order to find those responsible.” The supermarket has an ongoing campaign calling for better protection for shopworkers.

Mr Goldie added: “This highlights our zero tolerance policy on all types of crime aimed at our colleagues and customers.

“Once again, we are sending a clear message out to anyone who might consider targeting our colleagues and stores – it is not worth the risk and no crime will be tolerated.”

In the coming months, Central England Co-op is increasing a range of different measures in stores including expanding a service it uses that allows colleagues, at the touch of the button, to call for assistance.

The chain will also be putting tracking devices in more products to deter would-be thieves.

This will sit alongside a recently launched trial of body-worn cameras which, if successful, could be rolled out across all stores.