A driver who lost his job following claims he smelled of alcohol has been awarded more than £17,500 compensation.

A Glasgow employment tribunal heard Paul Hill from East Kilbride was called to a meeting in Falkirk after delivering a Coca-Cola order in Darlington. A customer allegedly informed his employers, Bond Retail Services, about the smell of drink.

Mr Hill told manager John Docherty he had attended a celebration to mark his father's 65th birthday the night before. They had gone to a restaurant and he had consumed a few drinks.

After the meeting, he was told to take a day off and Mr Hill said Mr Docherty told him he had nothing to worry about.

But the next day, July 25, 2006, he was phoned and told to return the company mobile phone.

He asked if he was being sacked, and claimed that Mr Docherty confirmed he was.

The company denied he had been sacked, claiming he resigned.

But the tribunal had no hesitation in believing Mr Hill's version of events.

"Frankly, we found Mr Docherty's evidence quite incredible," the tribunal added.

Mr Hill, of Glamis Drive, was awarded £17,270 for his unfair dismissal and a further £260 in holiday pay.