E-scooters are banned from the c2c line after being linked to yobs and trouble, but for Peter Humphris his electric mobility scooter is vital in helping him travel.
After being refused access for a second time on Wednesday, the Leigh resident – who gave up driving as his eyesight deteriorated – is demanding c2c clarify their position and apologise to him.
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“c2c make a big thing out of stating that mobility scooters are allowed on trains across their network and that users are more than welcome to use ramps for access,” said Mr Humphris.
“In the past, I have had no issue with this, but it has now happened twice within the space of two weeks.
“My problem is that my mobility scooter looks like an electric scooter.”
Vital – Mr Humphris uses his scooter for essential everyday journeys (Image: Peter Humphris) While it does have a fixed seat, unlike many standard mobility scooters, Mr Humphris’ scooter only has two wheels.
He says the issue has occurred while attempting to travel between Leigh and Benfleet, where he keeps a small boat.
“I bought the mobility scooter after my eyesight started to go and I decided that it may not be the best idea to keep driving,” he said.
Problems – Mr Humphris has twice been stopped from boarding trains at Leigh station (Image: Google Maps) Mr Humphris says he has no issue with individual station staff and believes that clarification from c2c would benefit them as well as him.
He said: “These guys have got their orders, and they’ve got to carry out what they’re told to do.
“I’ve got no issue with the way I was treated down there as when you speak to the people in the office, they are more than sympathetic to the problem.”
Mr Humphris is now in communication with the rail operator and is seeking clarification on their policy on mobility scooters aboard trains.
“I have been sending off emails to them and have even had a few phone calls. I just want clarification really,” he said.
A c2c spokesperson said: “c2c is aware of an incident at Leigh on Wednesday and is investigating. We remain in dialogue with the customer.”