A DISABLED woman has hit out after struggling to contact a popular gig venue in Huddersfield.
London resident Veronica Soskin said she wanted to book tickets to see Shakin’ Stevens at the Holmfirth Picturedrome in October.
The 64-year-old, who is registered disabled, said she could not stand for long periods and needed a guaranteed seat.
The former Barnet councillor, who has a carer to help her on trips out, said attempts to clarify the situation via the Holme Valley venue’s phone number and website had failed.
Mrs Soskin said the Picturedrome’s phone line just gave a message that its voicemail was full and said her email inquiries had not been answered.
And she said the lack of service was preventing her from organising the 200-mile journey north to see friends nearby.
“I have no problems with this in London theatres,” she said. “They all have dedicated telephone lines and they’re always very helpful.
“I tried to telephone them because I noticed the tickets said standing only and I can’t stand.
“But for four days running it said the message box is full.
“I’ve had an email back but they’re not listening to what I’m saying and they’ve just sent me listings with the cost of the tickets.
“I’m getting absolutely nowhere. There must be other disabled people in the north of England. But Picturedrome boss Peter Carr said: “If someone has got a particular disability we guarantee them a chair.
“I ask them to come down early and take their pick of the seats. I let motobility scooters in the side and wheelchairs come in the front for a good view of the stage.
“We’ve got a brand new disabled toilet – it’s not as if we don’t have the facilities for them.”
Mr Carr admitted he was having problems with his phone line but said he could not afford to operate a telephone inquiries service.
Following the Examiner’s inquiry Mr Carr said he had phoned Mrs Soskin and the situation had now been resolved.
