One-legged golfer accuses council of discrimination over buggy ban

 A one-legged golfer banned from driving a buggy on a course is suing a council for discrimination.

Paul Houghton has brought the action against Brentwood Borough Council in Essex over an incident at its Hartswood golf course two years ago.

Arriving for a game, he was told he could not bring his buggy on the course without a letter from his doctor proving that he needed it.

Mr Houghton says that the policy requiring golf buggy users to produce a letter from their doctor to prove they are disabled is discriminatory.

His right leg was amputated in 2000 after he contracted the flesh-eating bug necrotising fasciitis.

He has represented England at disability golf but needs a buggy to get around because his prosthetic leg causes pressure sores, and overuse of crutches can cause shoulder injuries.

Mr Houghton said he was “gobsmacked” by the council’s stance, which he says “sends the message that disabled people aren’t welcome”.

“I’ve played over 100 courses around England, I’ve played all around the world and I’ve not been treated in this way before,” he said.

The council said: “Brentwood Borough Council denies any discrimination and is fully defending the ongoing legal action.

“A full statement will be made once legal action has concluded.”