Disabled grandmother told she was too drunk to be served at Wetherspoons pub
Ann Hill was born with cerebral palsy, which severely affects her speech and ability to walk
A grandmother who suffers with cerebral palsy was denied service at a pub because door staff thought she was drunk.
Ann Hill, from Brownhills, said she was left 'hurt and embarrassed' after she was turned away at a Wetherspoon pub.
The 55-year-old went to the Briar Rose in Birmingham with a friend after leaving a concert but was told she was too drunk to have any more.
Mrs Hill was born with cerebral palsy, which severely affects her speech and ability to walk.
Express & Star comment: Teach pub staff about disabilities
She said: "I had been walking all day and was absolutely exhausted. I went outside for a cigarette and asked the doorman if there was anywhere to have something to eat. He totally ignored me.
"I went to the barmaid and she said I was not to be served again because I was drunk. I asked why and she said she had been told by the doorman not to serve us."
Wetherspoon said the couple 'argued' with staff after being denied service and that they would have 'gladly' served them if it had been explained Mrs Hill had a disability.
The grandmother-of-three admitted to shouting but said she was upset by what had happened.
She said: "I was really angry. I am 55 years old, I shouldn't have to tell people why I am walking and talking the way I am.
"My parents were publicans. I have never in my entire life been told to leave a pub. I was hurt, embarrassed and disgusted. All through school I was picked on and bullied, the only people I can rely on are my family, friends and neighbours."
Mrs Hill had been to a show at Birmingham Town Hall on April 27 when she headed to the pub.
"I don't want to go to Birmingham again. I'm frightened if anyone says something."
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “Initially the door staff that thought the lady was intoxicated and refused her entry.
“The lady and her friend argued with the door team instead of informing them of her disability.
“They did the same thing when the bar team suggested she was too intoxicated to be served, only telling staff about her disability after 20 minutes of arguing.
“If the lady had told door and bar staff at the very beginning then they would have apologised for the error and gladly served the couple.
“Both door staff and bar staff genuinely believed she was intoxicated and with no other information to go on, made the right decision.”
