Amputee 'devastated' after being kicked out Kilmarnock pub
Staff refused to serve him because he wouldn't leave his mobility scooter outside
Last updated 11th Apr 2024
A furious daughter admits her amputee dad was left in tears after he was refused a pint in a Kilmarnock pub because he wouldn’t leave his mobility scooter outside.
Nicole Seery’s parent Patrick headed along to The Standing Man on Portland Street on Sunday to watch the Old Firm when he was instructed by staff his electronic aid wasn’t permitted inside the premises.
Paddy – as he is well-known around the town – lost both his legs last year but was told he wasn’t going to be served after he tried to explain he always needed the scooter.
And now a “raging” Nicole has explained the incident has left her dad a “broken man” and has demanded the bar – owned by hospitality chain Amber Tavern – apologise to him.
She said: “He was going to go to the Wetherspoons, but they weren’t showing the football.
“So, he goes to The Standing Man. He’s been in loads of times before. They have big double doors so he can get the scooter in and also a ramp for wheelchairs, and he’s never been asked to take this outside before.
“He’s went in, asked for a pint, and was told no, he had to leave his scooter outside for insurance purposes.”
Before adding: “My mum says he is a broken man, my dad doesn’t cry, he is very strong, but he was so embarrassed.
“He told her: ‘I am a double amputee, what do you want me to do? Leave my scooter outside and crawl back in?’
“And she (staff) made this big scene in front of everybody.”
Nicole says her dad left The Standing Man devastated but ended up finding another boozer nearby where he bumped into old friends, meaning the afternoon wasn’t a total write-off.
“I’ve called head office first thing this morning to complain.” Nicole continued.
“They told me the area manager would phone me back but so far I have had nothing.”
Since Sunday's knockback, Nicole says the area manager has been in touch with the family to say sorry.
But the frustrated daughter was again left aghast as she claims they were offered a free pint to make up for the incident.
Nicole finished: "They could not have been any more apologetic, which I did appreciate, but it doesn't take away the shame and embarrassment.
"They offered my dad a pint which I don't feel is any way just.
"Nothing can really take away the hurt my dad still feels till now."
West FM has also reached out to Amber Taverns without success.