Tesco is facing criticism over its updated Click and Collect kiosks which are not disability-friendly.

Ian Paterson, 58, claims the supermarket is violating the Equality Act because the height and position of the machines put disabled people at a disadvantage.

The new system at the Colchester Hythe store forces disabled people to leave their car, go round to the passenger’s side and press a set of options on a screen, which is higher than before.

Mr Paterson is able-bodied and has raised the issue three times in three weeks, hoping adjustments would be made.

He said: “In older times you would have driven up to the parking bays, pushed the Click and Collect button from the driver’s seat and a voice would say a member of the store will be in touch, then someone would come outside.

“Now that’s been replaced and is on the passenger’s side set back from where the car is.

“Apparently these are being rolled out across the majority of Tesco stores but if you’re disabled, with the new system you have to sit there waiting until a member of staff sees you.

“I’m not saying there’s lots of people who have experienced this, but disabled people are fiercely independent and in this scenario, they can’t be.”

Three Tesco employees, including managers, have been made aware of the shortcomings.

Mr Paterson, of Colchester, praised the store’s overall disability access and support staff give to impaired shoppers.

But he added: “In an attempt to improve service, or more likely save money, Tesco has deprived a section of the community the use of this shopping optiont.

“I’m just standing up for what’s right. Three weeks is long enough to do something.”

A Tesco spokesman said the company is committed to providing equal access to all of its stores and is proud of its work with disabled groups.

She said: “We’re pleased to be introducing new technology to our Click and Collect areas to make it simpler for customers to collect their items.

“We have dedicated colleagues to assist those who need extra support.”