A tribunal case in which a driver was awarded more than £17,000 has highlighted the importance of carrying out disciplinary procedures properly.

The BBC reports that Paul Hill, of East Kilbride, who worked as a driver delivering Coca-Cola containers, was dismissed after a client said his breath smelled of alcohol.

Bond Retail Services Ltd had denied that Mr Hill was sacked, saying that he had resigned from his post. But the tribunal ruled he had been unfairly dismissed as the company had not followed proper disciplinary procedures because it failed to investigate the complaint adequately.

The tribunal heard that Mr Hill had been summoned to a meeting with manager John Docherty following the complaint.

Mr Hill said he had been celebrating his father’s 65th birthday the night before with a few drinks. He said he was told to take the next day off and not to worry.

But the next day he was phoned by Mr Docherty who asked him to return the company phone. When Mr Hill asked if he was being sacked, Mr Docherty said he had no choice.

Mr Docherty told the tribunal that Mr Hill had told him at the end of the shift that he was going to resign without notice.

Tribunal chairman Alan Worthing said he found Mr Docherty’s evidence “quite incredible” adding he found it hard to believe someone would leave a £440 a week job for unemployment.

Mr Hill was awarded a total of £17,270 for his unfair dismissal and a further £260 in unpaid holidays.