SHE may command the largest force for years and control budgets worth millions - but North Yorkshire's chief constable was turned away when she approached a superstore checkout with an armful of wine.

Della Cannings was in uniform when she tried to purchase a few bottles for an official function in Scarborough, which prompted the alert checkout manager at the local branch of Tesco to intervene.

The 1964 Licensing Act prevents traders from selling refreshments to on-duty police officers - including the chief constable.

However, Mrs Cannings was allowed to proceed with her purchase after removing her hat and epaulettes and announcing she was now off duty.

''The checkout supervisor was absolutely correct and it was a fair challenge,'' said a Tesco spokesman.

''Mrs Cannings responded amicably and, once she had removed her hat and epaulettes, everything was sorted out to everyone's satisfaction.

''The supervisor apologised at the time for any embarrassment which may have been caused but this is standard procedure - although it's not something we have to do every day.''

A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Police confirmed the force was aware of the incident but confirmed Mrs Cannings would be making no further comment.