Claws out at the opera

SIR – Recent letters (May 23) on the National Trust’s policy towards dogs at its properties reminded me of the occasion when I visited Glyndebourne opera house, accompanied by my assistance dog, Maple.

I was refused access (illegally, under the Equalities Act of 2010) to the Organ Room in the old Manor House, on the grounds that Maple’s paws might damage the antique wooden flooring of the room. I left the dog outside with my partner and returned.

However, my six-inch stiletto heels – worn in common with many other ladies on that occasion – caused far more damage to the floor than even a monster of a dog could have managed.

Elizabeth Arendt

St Albans, Hertfordshire