A restaurant boss has hit back at customers who refused service from an autistic member of staff.
Mike Jennings, who runs Grenache Restaurant in Manchester, said Andy Foster's confidence had been destroyed after the patrons asked "what is wrong with him?".
Foster, 45, was diagnosed with autism seven years ago and took on the job to help support his role as a registered carer for his mother, who suffers from Alzheimers.
Grenache
Jennings told the Manchester Evening News: "The customers seemed to have a problem with him, even though his service was good.
"I explained that he suffered from autism and their response was that they didn’t want to be served by him.
"They asked me why I would give him a job in a restaurant like ours. I couldn’t believe it."
Jennings was so incensed he posted a message on the restaurant's Facebook page.
The message reads: "Today was spent rebuilding the confidence of one of our team, after being disrespected and socially discriminated by a table dining with us last night.
"'What is wrong with him?' and 'Why would you give him a job?' they asked...
"Here at Grenache, we employ staff based on experience, knowledge and passion for the job... NOT the colour of their skin, or the way they look, how many tattoos they have, their dress size, religious beliefs or illness.
"We do not discriminate!
"If you DO... Then please do not book a table at Grenache. You do not deserve our time, effort or RESPECT!"