A Swindon supermarket has apologised to a disabled customer after staff refused to accept his method of payment.

Connor Lambert was prevented from using a chip-and-signature card by staff at the Orbital Shopping Centra Asda in Haydon Wick on October 4, despite needing to use the card for disability reasons.

Mr Lambert, 32, said: “I had been going to the same Asda with my carer every week and the use of the card had never been refused before.

“However, I was informed at self-service that my transaction couldn’t be approved without further photo identification, which I didn’t have.”

Read More: Asda staff in Swindon 'at breaking point' demand change

Mr Lambert, who suffers from functional seizures, said he had never had to provide ID before, so decided to leave his shopping at the checkout when he was approached by security.

“I felt intimidated by the section leader and the store’s security, who wouldn’t give me their name when I asked why they wouldn’t accept the card despite having done so multiple times before.”

After Mr Lambert complained to the store about how he was treated, he received an apology from Asda that assured him that action would be taken.

An Asda spokesperson said: "All of our stores accept chip and signature transactions. Unfortunately, the method was not accepted in error on this occasion, and we will be making sure that our colleagues in the store are reminded of this policy.

"We have since apologised to Mr Lambert for his experience which falls short of our expectations."

Mr Lambert says he has since returned to the Asda with his carer but has taken cash with him so he doesn’t have to use his card.

“I’m still confused about what happened. I’m also left confused by the response from Asda as to if photo ID is required.”

The Orbital Asda has been beset with issues in recent times.

In November last year, it received a zero-food hygiene rating, with both Swindon Borough Council and Asda refusing to explain what failings were found to lead to this. 

The supermarket did turn things around, however, and after being reinspected in April of this year it had achieved the full five stars. 

Read More: Swindon Asda rated zero for food hygiene inspected again

In August staff at the store are alleged to have sent an email to management demanding change because they were 'at breaking point'

Issues raised included claims of not being paid due to a new pay system being installed, chronic understaffing, severe lack of investment and the general state of the store. 

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