A SUPERMARKET apologised yesterday after a mannequin was dressed as a slave in the shop entrance to publicise a film.

Shoppers were greeted by the unusual sight yesterday morning when they entered Sainsbury’s at Heyford Hill. It was to mark the home release of Oscar-winning film 12 Years A Slave.

The mannequin was dressed in clothes similar to those worn by central character Solomon Northup, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor.

The dummy was dressed in a beige shirt with black trousers, both with rips, and had a twig in its pocket.

It was published online by Twitter user John Sargeant , who tweeted: “If you are a slave to fashion, Sainsbury’s has it covered.

“Suggest (Sainsbury’s public relations) get on to this rather quick.”

The 11.55am post was followed about an hour an a half later by a reply from Sainsbury’s.

A Sainsbury’s spokesman said: “We can only apologise.

“It’s been taken down from the Heyford Hill store and clearly should never have gone up in the first place.”

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