A FACTORY worker with a chronic stammer claims he needed hospital treatment for depression after being forced to speak in public by his bosses.

Kevin Alderson, 39, has spoken of his humiliation and is being backed by his union, the GMB, over his claim he was discriminated against because of his speech impediment.

He had worked for 23 years for Walkers Crisps at its factory in Peterlee, County Durham, Packaging technician Mr Alderson said he was been happy in his work until asked to take part in role-playing exercises and verbal presentations.

He quit his job in despair four months ago and is now claiming constructive dismissal.

Mr Alderson, of Easington Colliery, County Durham, said: "My life was made hell. It was known how much I hated talking in front of people, yet I still had to take part in exercises in how to talk to the public."

He described the nightmare as he stood to give his views on the course to members of the group. "I could feel my heart thumping, I stuttered badly and felt totally embarrassed."

Mr Alderson took his annual leave shortly afterwards and said he was victimised on his return. He also claimed his concerns were ignored by senior management at the firm.

A spokesman for Walkers said it was inappropriate to comment at this stage