Home   Kent   News   Article

I'm too old: tour guide in row with council over age claims

Frank Schofield, the tour guide who claims he has been discriminated against
Frank Schofield, the tour guide who claims he has been discriminated against

A volunteer tour guide says he has been told to stop working because he's too old.

Frank Schofield, 69, has been greeting visitors to Whitstable for a year and a half but says the council doesn't want his free services anymore.

Mr Schofield, who suffers from arthritis in his hip and walks with a stick, stands by the Whitstable sign outside the lifeboat station every day and is on hand to offer information to anyone passing by.

But now Canterbury City Council has said he can't work for them because he does not fit in with its 'tourism restructure' and has no training.

In the height of summer more than six coaches a day can pass through, bringing hundreds of visitors to the town.

Mr Schofield has also spent £260 buying guide T-shirts, a high visibility jacket and a notice board to promote his services.

Council bosses say they appreciate the work he's done but say they would now need to endorse him as a guide and they don't have the cash to train him

They also say that age played no part.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More