A STOURPORT pensioner alleged he was physically assaulted on two occasions by employees of a jewellery firm where he worked as a van driver.

Neville Bould, 68, of Redstone Caravan Park, Stourport, told Birmingham Employment Tribunal he complained about the attacks to police and eventually resigned in protest over the way he had been treated.

Mr Bould, who made a compensation claim for unfair constructive dismissal against the firm, said there was no reason for the attacks.

“One employee elbowed me, then hit me in the face, took my glasses after they had been knocked off and gave me a V-sign,” said Mr Bould.

“On another occasion, another employee struck me on my side as he went past, to such an extent that I felt sick and had to go home and lie down.

“I needed painkillers and went to hospital. I was left with bruises. I complained to the management and when I looked in the firm’s accident book, the assault was recorded as a collision.

“Apart from physical assaults, I had to put up with verbal abuse, harassment and bullying. The final straw came when I had to take gold and silver in the works van to assay offices in Birmingham.

“I found myself surrounded by four thugs. I locked myself in as they tried to get in. Eventually, I drove off, unhurt.

“I complained to the firm about a lack of security. More should have been done to protect, such as having bars on the vehicle, but no-one seemed bothered.”

The firm opposed Mr Bould’s claim and denied the allegations.

Simon Tibbitts, representing Acme Jewellery, of Belbroughton, said the firm had carried out enquiries among employees and their evidence would be given later.

The hearing was listed for four days and a tribunal decision is to be given at a later date.

Mr Bould provided a statement by an employee, confirming what had happened to him.