My 85-year-old parents visited Farmers and had what my mother calls ‘an adventure' on the escalator. Completing shopping, they took a shortcut to the carpark, on the escalator. Dad, carrying shopping bags, and mum, carrying a handbag and using her walking stick had just got on when Mum lost one shoe and bent down to pick it up.
This somehow saw her sit down, completing the journey on her backside. This naturally caused concern to staff, who rushed to her aid. Mum wasn't hurt but couldn't get up by herself.
Meanwhile, Dad decided to get off and assist her by leap-frogging over her. His acrobatic movement didn't quite go to plan. He landed neatly beside mum. Staff assisted mum, whose dress was snagged in the escalator's jaws, while others lifted dad to his feet.
All staff showed utmost concern and kindness to my parents, who were both unhurt apart from their dignity. On behalf of our family – who are still laughing – we'd like to thank Farmers' staff for their kindness and quick thinking. I imagine any security camera footage of the ‘escalator adventure' will see staff replaying it endlessly. I know I would be.
My parents, who naturally wish to remain anonymous, give their thanks and promise faithfully to never negotiate the escalator again.
They're also very grateful no other customers were behind them, to get caught up in the carnage. Merry Christmas to you all.

A Murray, Gate Pa.