Shoppers have threatened to boycott an Aldi supermarket after a well known Big Issue seller was reportedly moved from his usual spot outside the store.
Allan, 62, has sold copies of the Big Issues near the entrance of the Prestwich Aldi for more than four years.
He claims he's been told by store bosses he can no longer stand at his usual spot, and instead must stand on a bit of pavement on the car park.
The reported move has sparked outrage among shoppers and members of the Prestwich community.
A campaign has been launched to allow Allan to resume his usual patch by the main entrance.
An open letter to Aldi Prestwich shared on the 'Original Prestwich People' Facebook group read: "Can you please explain to the shoppers of your store why you have asked Alan the Big Issue seller to move his selling patch to over the road?
"This is away from protection from the elements and further away from shoppers.
"Alan has helped with trollies, helped look after dogs, packed heavy items into peoples cars not to mention help stop shop lifters.
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"Why has he been moved away from the doors? We would like a reply."
Some shoppers told the Manchester Evening News they were considering boycotting the store.
Allan, who lives in Clayton, said he has been touched by the level of support.
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"I was told I'd got to move last week," he told the Manchester Evening News.
"I first started selling the Big Issue here four-and-a-half years ago because I was unemployed.
"People know me around here. I sell the Big Issue, but I also try and help when I can.
"A lot of elderly people struggle with their shopping bags, so sometimes I'll help them carry it all to their car.
"I've made a lot of friends from being here. I was shocked when they told me I'd have to move. I'm not doing any harm."
Allan is worried about the impact the move will have on the number of Big Issue copies he sells.
When stood by the door, under shelter, Allan says he usually sells around 75 copies a week for £2.50.
The amount he makes on top of his benefits is enough to cover his bills and keep a roof over his head.
Shoppers described Allan as a 'gentlemen' who 'goes out of his way to help others'.
Allan said he doesn't want people to stop using the store.
Bury South MP Ivan Lewis said he would be writing to Aldi bosses.
"There is a lot of strong local feeling that he should be able to stay," he said.
"Alan is a courteous and kind person who makes a positive contribution to our Prestwich community.
"I will be writing to Aldi to ask them to reconsider their position."
The Big Issue has been contacted by the M.E.N. for comment.
Aldi has also been contacted by the M.E.N. for a response.
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