Theme park tells one-legged woman to prove she's disabled

Rui Vieira/PA

A woman with one leg was told by Britain's biggest theme park Alton Towers to prove her disability with a doctor's letter.

Rosie Belhamza wears a prosthetic limb from the knee down and was trying to get special access to the rides at Alton Towers.

In previous years she has simply had to show her Disability Living Allowance letter but was asked for the extra documentation this year by the Staffordshire theme park, which claims to have improved its service.

The 47-year-old from Derby lost her right leg from an accident caused by diabetic neuropathy.

'I'm angry. They told me to book an urgent doctor's appointment but I think most GPs would find this unacceptable. Many also charge up to £50 for a letter,' she told the Mirror.

Alton Towers' disabled visitors guide states: 'Our policy has been updated to provide an even better service to those who need it.'

The theme park told the Mirror its policy was reviewed with the help of organisations, including Scope.

'We are sorry a customer was asked to book an urgent doctor's appointment and we apologise,' a spokesperson said.

'We aim to ensure disabled guests are treated with respect.'

Campaigner Neil Coyle from the Disability Alliance said it was unreasonable to insist visitors bring proof of their disability.

He said many disabled people would struggle to be able to afford a doctors' note in addition to a day out.

Alton Towers is owned by Merlin Entertainments Group and visited by three million people a year.


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