SHOPWORKERS need to be protected from aggression, an MP has said.

Bargain Booze retailer Gareth Wynne hosted a store visit with his local MP David Hanson to talk about the role of his store in the community and some of the challenges that convenience retailers face.

The visit took place at Gareth’s store in Mold, which has recently been shortlisted in the Rising Star category of The Great British High Street Awards 2019.

David Hanson MP for Delyn said: "Many of us know the challenges facing our high streets. But you only have to spend a few moments with our shopworkers to see that they have the determination to keep our high streets thriving.

"Meeting with Gareth was an excellent example of someone who wants to provide customers with excellent service that cannot be found online.

"What we need now is for our shopworkers to be protected from aggression. They are responsible for upholding our age-related sales laws but they are not given the protection in law for doing so. The UK Government needs to pass a law that ensures that our retail workers are free from fear in the workplace. Too many people are being harmed for just doing their job.

"Mold is a very special town and one that rightly deserves to be shortlisted for the British High Street Award Rising Star award. I look forward to seeing Mold town centre continue to go from strength to strength."

Mr Hanson said Mold high street is committed to being the ideal shopping and social destination for the people living in the community and the tourists who visit.

Gareth spoke to the Delyn MP about how his store contributes to ensuring that the town centre is a nice place to be.

The store owner added: "It was great to have David Hanson MP visit my store and discuss the challenges for convenience retailers in Mold.

"David was very approachable to my customers and knowledgeable about the issues facing the high street. I’m pleased that he will continue to raise these issues in Parliament."

David Hanson MP led a Parliamentary campaign to introduce tougher sanctions for attacks on shopworkers and this resulted in the launch of a Home Office call for evidence on violence and abuse toward shop staff, including the extent to which incidents are linked to age-restricted sales of products like cigarettes and alcohol.

If you would like to arrange a store visit with your local MP to discuss the issues affecting your business, contact ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores).