A fishkeeper from Wolverhampton was prevented from buying a catfish when shop staff discovered he was planning on taking it home on his bike.
63-year-old cyclist Brian Booth, who does not drive, had cycled 10 miles to Dobbies Garden Centre in Gailey, but was told by staff that he couldn't have the £7.25 fish because they were concerned for its welfare in Mr. Booth's back-pack during his hour-long return journey.
Mr. Booth was left angry by the incident, claiming the shop had previously sold him fish without problems.
Dobbies' General Manager was quoted as saying that the company takes its policy towards livestock welfare very seriously and that potential new owners were made aware of their responsibility to provide the animal with a safe environment. Staff had explained to Mr. Booth that his method of transport was potentially unsafe for the fish and had therefore refused the sale on this occasion.
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