Cerebral palsy sufferer Jamie Cook refused place in Maidstone Amateur Operatic Society show because of disability

An amateur performer says he has been refused entry to a theatrical society because he is disabled.

Jamie Cook, who suffers from cerebral palsy, was told his condition made him ineligible to perform in Maidstone Amateur Operatic Societys production in April next year.

The 38-year-old auditioned for a role in the upcoming production of Half a Sixpence last month but was told he could not become a member of the productions cast.

Cerebral palsy sufferer Jamie Cook and Richard Hearnden-Webb former honourable secretary of Maidstone Amatuer Operatic Society

Despite the refusal he was offered a smaller role in the societys concert party - which can be booked to perform at events.

Mr Cook, who lives in Maidstone, said: Hearing the news made me feel both upset and angry. I did all that I could have done and spent two weeks rehearsing for my audition. I was really excited about it.

I cant see how my condition places any limits on me. I have had it all my life, I am used to it, its normal to me. I never let it get in the way of what I want to do and its awful that other people cant look beyond it.

I have been singing since I was very young, longer than I can remember. I have been in a choir before and always go to see the societys shows. This is my passion.

His alleged mistreatment outraged the societys former secretary, Richard Hearnden-Webb, who resigned from his position with no notice at the end of November.

He said: The society was formed in 1898 and I think some of their attitudes are still stuck in that time.

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Cerebral palsy sufferer Jamie Cook refused place in Maidstone Amateur Operatic Society show because of disability