A disabled woman who is forced to rely on a mobility scooter to get around says rude bus drivers have refused to allow her on their buses.

Linda Berlin struggles with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) and asthma and has to get to High Wycombe five times a week on the bus – but she has been told by dozens of bus drivers that she cannot get on with her scooter.

Ms Berlin, a Chesham resident, has to go to One Recovery Bucks in High Wycombe multiple times a week for treatment as she formerly struggled with alcohol addiction. However, she has sometimes been forced to leave her mobility scooter – which she pays £75 a month for – at home because bus drivers will not let her on.

The 63-year-old usually gets the number 1 or the 1A, routes which are co-ordinated by both Carousel and Arriva buses.

She said: “Drivers have told me ‘you will never get on this bus’ – it is wrong. I’m classed as disabled and have a blue badge but my mobility scooter is not like a great big wheelchair. A lot of the drivers just won’t put the ramp down for me to get on.

“I’ve been in hospital and on oxygen and I've told them all this but they don’t care – I've just had enough now. I've had to leave my scooter at home so I can get on the bus before, but I keep trying and trying because I should be allowed on.

“Other passengers on the buses have also asked how I can be refused before now. It’s just disgusting and it’s been going on for a long time.”

Both Arriva and Carousel Buses have responded to Ms Berlin’s concerns.

Simon Finnie, area managing director for Arriva Midlands South said: “The conduct of our drivers is of paramount importance to us and we take all reports of any instances of poor or neglectful customer service extremely seriously.

“We thank you for raising this matter with us. We will of course investigate the situation as a matter of urgency and take appropriate action where and if required.”

Phil Southall, Carousel Buses managing director, added: “Our buses carry all wheelchairs and mobility scooters where absolutely possible. However, there are weight limits and space constraints for larger wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

“Where there is any doubt or confusion over whether a mobility aid will fit, we invite our customer to visit our High Wycombe depot for an assessment.

“If the mobility aid is suitable a letter will be issued for the customer to carry when travelling. We have invited Ms Berlin to the depot for an assessment.”