Canal worker fired for having a ciggie in works van after anti-smoking ‘spy’ reported him to bosses

A CANAL worker was fired after a quit-smoking health employee saw him light up in his van and tipped off his bosses.

Volunteer leader James Wynn was spotted having a fag in his works vehicle by the addiction helper who told the Canal & River Trust anonymously.

Its vans have no-smoking signs and inspections found evidence of cigarette use in the vehicle.

Company smoking rules state sparking up in “non-designated areas” which includes company vehicles amounts to “gross misconduct” and bosses fired him last November.

He denied it, saying he picked up cigarette butts as litter, but an employment tribunal upheld the decision to fire him.

James, of Middleton, Gtr Manchester, slammed whoever reported him.

The message was from someone who “identified themselves as working for the Smoking Cessation Services”.

He told The Sun: “Why would they want to persecute someone if they’re supposed to help people stop smoking?”

Photodisc - Getty

Company smoking rules state sparking up in ‘non-designated areas’ which includes company vehicles amounts to ‘gross misconduct’ and bosses fired him last November[/caption]

“I’ve never had any form of disciplinary issues and they’ve always been satisfied with my work.

“I’ve worked on call and have done a lot for them to be honest.

“But it’s all counted for nothing.”

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