THE OWNER of a burger van which has parked outside a supermarket for more than three years has been told to leave.

Alan Crabtree, who runs Big Al's Snack Attack, has served customers at Asda's Whinbush Way store, in Darlington, with hot dogs and burgers since January 2002.

But he was told this week by the store's new manager Barry Thompson, that he was no longer welcome.

Mr Crabtree said: "I have been there for three years, then all of a sudden the new manager comes in.

"I just want to get back out there - I'm effectively redundant."

Mr Thompson, who took over as manager at the beginning of the year, said: "After feedback from colleagues and customers, we took the decision that it was no longer appropriate for him to continue in that location."

But customer Chris Kelly disagreed and said: "I was sad to see Alan go. He was like a member of the community."

Shopper Katrina Taylor said: "I've never heard of anyone saying they'd want the van to go. My heart really goes out to him."

Mr Crabtree will contact Asda's HQ, in Leeds, in a last-ditch attempt to keep the location. More than 250 shoppers have signed a petition of support.

Mr Thompson said: "I will be happy to take on board any feedback from our customers."