A HAMPSHIRE probation officer was ordered home from work - because he was wearing tartan trousers, it has been revealed today.

The worker, an offender manager based in Southampton, was suspended for half a day after bosses objected to his attire.

It is believed that the long-serving member of staff returned the following day having ditched the patterned trousers for a plain pair.

The same man has also faced a disciplinary hearing after being accused of harassing managers at the service.

A spokesman from Hampshire Probation said the two matters were not necessarily linked.

The disciplinary case has now gone to appeal stage.

The spokesman said: “Action has been taken against a member of staff, not for breaching dress code policy, but in relation to harassment towards another member of staff.

“This case is now subject to an appeal and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further. Any allegation of harassment will be fully investigated, and disciplinary action will be taken where deemed necessary."