I wonder if any East Sussex County Council or bank employee readers could help me with my dilemma?
As usual, I received my monthly superannuation cheque from the council and visited the same bank branch I have used for more than 14 years to change my cheque, always being served with utmost courtesy and consideration.
This month, I ran up against a brick wall - a male cashier. I presented my passport as proof of identity and, after it being studied, was told: "This passport is out of date. Have you a current one?"
I replied: "No, we don't go abroad any more."
"Have you a driving licence?"
"Yes, but it's an old one. I don't drive any more."
"How about a bank statement?"
"I do not have a bank account. I have a phone bill I wish to pay, my bus pass with my photo and name, my pension book, my rent book and my council tax statement."
After studying my bus pass, he said: "I will pay it this time but, in future, bring proof of identity."
I replied: "What is identity?"
And the answer was: "That is something you must work out with the council."
I only want to draw my money, which I paid in for more than 40 years, so as to pay my bills and be a decent citizen. Would someone please advise me, in case I run into this brick wall again?
-Frank Edwards, Craven Road, Brighton
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