A WHEELCHAIR user claims she was refused entry onto a train as a staff member said it would cause a delay.

Ellie Swinden, 40, arrived at Greenock Central on Monday March 13 for the 6.13am to Glasgow but was not allowed to board it.

Ellie, who uses a wheelchair following an accident, was travelling into the city and claims that when the conductor saw her and realised a ramp would be needed she refused her entry on the grounds that the train would be held up.

Ellie also alleges the ScotRail worker said she didn't want to go out in the rain, as she had just had her hair done.

A probe is under way but Ellie says she was made to feel like 'a second class citizen'.

Ellie added: "I feel discriminated against.

"I'm no different from an able-bodied person and should have the same access and opportunities.

"If this had happened to a mum with a pram, there would be uproar."

Ellie, who lives in Nicolson Street in Greenock, added: "The conductor saw me and said they didn't have the time to get the ramp as it would delay the other passengers.

"When she mentioned the haircut I was taken aback.

"She said if I needed help, I should have brought my carer or assistant with me.

"In the time she took to argue with me, she could have got the ramp for me and it would have been fine.

"They're willing to just leave a disabled person behind."

After she was refused access, Ellie called ScotRail's disability line and was advised the conductor has the right to refuse travel and doesn't have to explain why.

She added: "I know I was refused travel as I needed the ramp but to me, that's not a reason to refuse anyone.

"I got on the next train, and the difference was night and day.

"There will potentially be a lot of people in the same position as me but they're too scared to speak up and challenge people.

"I want ScotRail to be held accountable."

ScotRail today confirmed it is carrying out a full investigation into the alleged incident, which will include reviewing the station's CCTV footage.

They explained customers can book assistance in advance but if they are unable to do so then they can request assistance on the day from the on-train or station team.

Phil Campbell, ScotRail's head of customer operations, said: "I was sorry to learn of Ms Swinden's experience as ScotRail is dedicated to making sure that all rail users have equal access.

"The incident on 13 March is being investigated, along with the allegations made by Ms Swinden against a member of staff."

*ScotRail's passenger assist system can be accessed by calling 0800 046 1634.