Fed-up staff at a Fife Co-op store issued a temporary ban on under-16s after reaching the “end of their tether” following months of abuse and anti-social behaviour.
Workers at the Lochgelly branch took the unusual step on Monday in an attempt to stamp out issues being caused by teenagers.
A social media post put out by shop bosses, which has now been removed, said: “Due to the recent volume of anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and general abuse towards management and staff, with immediate effect no under-16s will be allowed entry to the store.
“The above issues are now in the hands of the police and meetings with both Lochgelly High School and St Andrews in Kirkcaldy have been organised.
“We have tried to curtail this, however the abuse we receive is totally unacceptable.”
One shopper, who has asked not to be identified, says the shop has been “terrorised by youngsters for months”.
She said: “I no longer come to the shop after dark as I’ve seen kids running amok there and it’s very intimidating.
“I’m not surprised the staff have been forced into doing this.
“The amount of hassle they’ve received has been awful.”
Lochgelly councillor Lea McLelland has condemned those responsible and says a minority of youngsters are to blame.
“No worker, no matter what their job is, should have to endure the level of abuse and suffering that staff at Lochgelly Co-op have had to endure by certain individuals in recent weeks,” she said.
“The staff felt they had no alternative but to issue the ban, if only to send out a clear message that this behaviour and intimidation is wholly unacceptable.”
Following a spate of anti-social behaviour and abuse the store team locally reached the end of their tether”
Co-op statement
The Co-op has confirmed that the ban was lifted on Wednesday.
A spokesperson told The Courier: “Following a spate of anti-social behaviour and abuse the store team locally reached the end of their tether and introduced a temporary measure to ensure a safe and enjoyable shopping environment for colleagues and customers.
“Everyone is now welcome in the store.”
Police carrying out patrols in area
Sergeant Paul Cochrane from Police Scotland said: “We have been made aware of recent issues of anti-social behaviour incidents in the Lochgelly area and we are aware of the disruptive effect this can have on the local community.
“Officers are continuing to patrol the area and we are committed to working with our partners to encourage people away from this type of behaviour.
“We will take the appropriate action where incidents are reported and offenders are identified.”
Co-op previously issued its support for a campaign calling for greater protection in law for shop workers, before the law was changed by the Scottish Government.
