A former general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Sheffield has lost a sexual harassment case brought by his secretary.

An industrial tribunal last week heard that Tony Knight pursued Hannah Eastwood with chocolates and offers of concert and horseracing tickets. Eastwood also alleged Knight had touched her bottom. She went off work with stress before quitting the job.

Knight, who later resigned, claimed he had invited her to events only as a member of staff. He described the case as “a dreadful misunderstanding”. Compensation for Eastwood is due to be awarded by the tribunal next week.

JCT600, the dealership’s owner, says the issue of sexual harassment is treated “extremely seriously”, and a number of steps have been taken to make staff more aware.