By James Johnson

Last updated at 11:31, Thursday, 23 February 2012

A Carlisle restaurant has been ordered to pay a diner £1,500 after they refused to let him in with his guide dog.

Jon Prashar

Jon Prashar, 48, took his case to Birmingham Crown Court after his dog – Mr T – was not allowed to accompany him to the Indigo takeaway last August.

Mr Prashar, who is registered blind but can see a little, said he hoped the case would send out “a clear message” to businesses.

He had been on his way back from Carlisle races with friends when they decided to go for a curry.

They went to the Indian takeaway, in Denton Holme, but were told they could not enter because Mr Prashar had his guide dog with him.

Despite pointing out that Mr T was a guide dog, the group was still not allowed in, and Mr Prashar, who is a trustee of disability charity Leonard Cheshire Trust, decided to take action.

He explained: “I decided that it wasn’t acceptable behaviour. I think I should be able to go for a meal wherever I want free from harassment.

“I have had eyesight problems since birth and this attitude and behaviour doesn’t help anyone.

“I hope that they have learnt a lesson and will think things over. They should reconsider their actions.”

Mr Prashar, from Wakefield, brought the case at Birmingham Crown Court on the grounds that the restaurant discriminated against him. They were found guilty of having discriminated against him and Mr Prashar was awarded £1,500 damages and costs.

Jack Klar, of Jack Klar Solicitors in Halesowen, West Midlands, represented Mr Prashar.

He said: “I hope that this judgement will make it clear to such businesses that discriminated is unacceptable.”

First published at 11:26, Thursday, 23 February 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk