Rail company apologise to user of mobility aids
^{Mobility Product News}

Posted by Pat Prince

One user of mobility aids has received an apology and from a rail services provider after he was told he could not take his wheelchair on to the train.

First Great Western has also offered stroke victim Tim Mason, who is virtually paralysed, three months worth of free travel by way of compensation, Torquay's Herald Express reported.

Having had two strokes in 2004, the 49-year-old Teignmouth resident now has mobility difficulties, but has been travelling by train for years.

"I was shocked and amazed. My wheelchair is within the required maximum measurements and I sit in the disabled bay without obstructing anybody or anything," he told the newspaper.

Dan Panes, a spokesman for the rail firm, told the publication that staff were being briefed, explaining that large mobility scooters were not permitted on the train but motorised wheelchairs, like Mr Mason's were allowed.

Elsewhere, paralympian athlete Tanni Grey-Thompson recently urged shops in London's West End to provide greater accessibility to people with mobility aids, according to the London Evening Standard.

^2010-07-22

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