A Perth pensioner who sued Marks & Spencer for £30,000 over claims she slipped on a prawn cocktail in their store on the town”s High Street, breaking her hip and leaving her unable to walk, has been awarded £7500.
Janet Morritt (71) lodged the action at Perth Sheriff Court, alleging she fell when she lost her footing in a puddle of sauce and water from a nearby display of flowers that had not been cleaned from the floor.
The Macmillan Cancer volunteer said she needed emergency surgery to have a plate fitted in her hip, has been left with a permanent limp and is unable to drive.
THE WRIT claimed Mrs Morritt was shopping on February 12 when the incident happened.
It stated, “Her left foot slipped on a wet part on the floor.
“Alongside the stand containing the flower display was another stand. She tried to save herself by clutching the stand.
“As she did so her right foot slipped. She was unable to save herself and fell to the ground sustaining the injuries. Her back was jammed against the display cabinet behind her.”
Mrs Morritt was given help by a staff member and was told that there had been a spillage of prawn cocktail from the nearby salad display shelf.
Mrs Morritt claimed Marks & Spencer should have known that water would be spilled from the flower display and the food hall had not been properly inspected.
Her limp has left her unable to enjoy her hobby, hillwalking, and she has had to cancel a holiday to Cyprus.
Marks & Spencer fought the claim and said Mrs Morritt “had to take reasonable care for her own safety. She had a duty to watch where she placed her feet.”
A court official confirmed yesterday that decree in the case was granted for the sum of £7500.