PARALYSED Brean resident plans to petition against parking charges introduced at Berrow Beach.
Bob Alexander was outraged when Sedgemoor District Council brought in a £2 daily charge for disabled parking at the seafront site about a month ago.
The 64-year-old, who is 85 per cent paralysed, now believes he can no longer afford to visit the beach everyday, which he used to do for some relaxation.
The South Road resident said: "I am used to going to the beach everyday just to get some fresh air, look at the sea and watch people go by.
"This will now cost me £14 a week, which I can not afford considering the benefits I receive.
"I think the council must be contravening acts of the Disability Rights Commission.
"Surely it is a human right of disabled people, such as myself, to enjoy some respite without having to pay lots of money."
Bob became paralysed at the age of 59 when he slipped on some ice and broke his neck and can no longer use his arms or legs.
He lives with his wife Debbie, who looks after him throughout the day.
Despite this, he is planning to produce a petition that he can take to the village shops in the hope others will support his campaign.
He said: "The ignorance of staff at Sedgemoor District Council is unbelievable.
"I spoke to someone to find out why they had introduced the charges and no one has ever got back to me.
"I am hoping this petition will at least make people aware of the issue even if the council doesn't take any notice."
A council spokesman said: "The charges were introduced in line with other beaches in the area.
"The income goes towards the cost of beach wardens and as a concession we have introduced a season ticket for residents.
Weston & Somerset Mercury, 18th April 2009
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