Co-op boss Peter Marks paid a visit to his local store in Bingley to back a campaign aimed at curbing abuse of shop workers during the busy pre-Christmas period.

Bingley resident Mr Marks, group chief executive of The Co-operative Group, was joined by Shipley MP Philip Davies for the visit to the Co-operative store in the town’s 5 Rise shopping centre.

They were backing a campaign urging shoppers to show respect for shop workers. The visit highlighted the Co-op’s backing for shopworkers’ union Usdaw’s Freedom from Fear campaign.

The retail group has also developed an “avoiding conflict” training programme for its shop staff, enabling them to minimise the likelihood of verbal and physical assault.

Mr Marks and Mr Davies also discussed a range of issues, including trade and challenges, as well as responsible retailing and Fairtrade.

Mr Marks said: “We are proud to again be working with Usdaw to promote the Freedom From Fear campaign.

“Colleagues work hard, especially at Christmas, and people should always think twice before venting their frustrations and abusing a shop worker.”