Morrisons Demand Proof Of Age From 87-Year Old Ex Mayor

Thu, 25 Jan 2007
 
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A pensioner was asked to prove his age while trying to purchase a bottle of sherry, even though he's aged 87.

Jack Archer was shopping at a local Morrisons store in York when he was met with the absurd query because staff at the supermarket have been told to check the age of anyone buying alcohol.

Mr Archer told the supermarket checkout girl, "I'm over 80. Will that do?"

Staff have been ordered to adopt the hardline action after the supermarket was reprimanded for selling alcohol to an under 18’s.

Mr Archer, a former Lord Mayor of York, said, "I don't think I look my age, but they must have known I'm not under 18, it's just silly."

"The girl said she had to ask how old I was. I don't blame the individual staff because they are just obeying instructions. I should think they get a few complaints, though."

70 year old Don Parlabean, Chairman of the York Older People's Assembly, was annoyed by the policy when he was also asked his age at the store, in Acomb, North Yorkshire .

"It's ridiculous. Surely the staff can use common sense," he said.

"You don't need to ask someone in their 70s or 80s if they are old enough to buy booze . I've known people to be really put out by being asked for identification."

A spokesman for Morrisons yesterday said, "Staff are trained to be highly vigilant in detecting underage alcohol purchases.

"The question is not being asked to cause offence and no disrespect is intended."

"We simply wish to make sure that we satisfy our moral and legal obligations with regard to the sale of alcohol," he continued.

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