Asda has defended the removal of kosher items from its store in Liverpool's Sefton Park, citing poor sales.

Israeli-born Rafi Sharabi, who lives nearby in Wavertree, said a number of angry Jewish customers had rung to complain.

He was eventually told by the store management that following a directive from head office, staff had removed kosher lines from the world section, which carries Indian, Chinese and halal ranges.

An Asda spokesman said: "Obviously we care about what our customers think. If there is a swell of complaints, there is a possibility of putting the products back in."