The Daily Mail newspaper reports that the Carphone Warehouse has introduced a rather bizarre new clause into its TalkTalk broadband package. People over the age of 70 must be accompanied by a child to explain the small print!:

Shirley Greening-Jackson thought signing up for a new internet service would be a doddle. But the young man behind the counter had other ideas. He said she was barred - because she was too old.

The 75-year-old would only be allowed to sign the forms for the Carphone Warehouse's TalkTalk phone and broadband package if she was accompanied by a younger member of her family who could explain the small print to her.

Carphone Warehouse admitted it had adopted an over-70 rule. But the firm insisted it was not a blanket policy and claimed the guidance was to protect the elderly. A spokeswoman said: "It is not our policy to refuse business from adult customers of any age group. However, we do ask our agents to use their discretion when dealing with older customers."

This is quite possibly one of the most ridiculous things we've ever read and no doubt deeply insulting to anybody over the age of 70, the majority of which are probably more intelligent than most.

Surely it wouldn't be too difficult for Carphone to simply train their staff to handle such individuals, rather than effectively barring them. After all, kids have a tendency to grow into adults and then.. funnily enough, elderly people. Shocking I know!