A DISGUSTED shopper had a shock delivered to his door after using a supermarket's home shopping service for the first time.

For Patrick Johnson discovered a three-inch fish worm crawling over a piece of cod when the groceries arrived on his doorstep.

Mr Johnson, 47, who lives with partner Elizabeth, 30 and new-born baby, Robyn, in Carter Fold, Mellor, has received an apology from ASDA - but they can't investigate further because he's thrown the fish away.

He said: "We spent £100 on an order using ASDA's online home delivery service.

"Part of the order dropped off on Sunday was a £3.50 ASDA Fresh Cod Fillet.

"As I opened the packet I thought it had a piece of cloth on it at first, but then I realised it was a worm - it was still alive and crawling on the fish, it must have been three inches long.

"It was disgusting really. You don't expect to find a worm in your food and I am just grateful I didn't eat it."

Mr Johnson, who works as a supervisor for Blackburn-based Alpha Security Projects, added: "It was actually the first time I'd used the home delivery service - me and my partner thought we'd give it a try as we are busy looking after Robyn.

"I phoned ASDA's online service to complain and they said I could have a refund and £5 but I am not interested and have thrown the fish in the bin. I will not be shopping with them again."

ASDA stressed it could only launch a probe into the fish, whose packaging states came from the North East Atlantic, if it was returned to them.

A spokeswoman said: "Firstly, we apologise for any inconvenience that has been caused.

"If Mr Johnson could bring the product into his local ASDA store, we will re-imburse him and give him an alternative product.

"We can then send the cod off for testing, and carry out a full investigation.

"If Mr Johnson has any more questions about the procedure, he can feel free to contact us either at store or through out customer relations team on 0500 100 055."

According to government figures, there has been only one reported case of illness related to cod worm in the United Kingdom since 1980 - because they are only a risk to public health if eaten raw.

A spokesman for the Sea Fish Industry Authority, which offers advice and supports the UK seafood industry, said: "It can be a problem in a very small number of cases, but unless you eat fish that hasn't been cooked or frozen then it's very unlikely you would become ill.

"Correct cooking or freezing would kill any parasites, although every possible precaution is taken to remove parasites prior to the food reaching the consumer."