A blind man was kicked off a bus in Twickenham for not wearing a face mask – despite having proof he was exempt.

David Allen, from Hampton Hill, has spoken out after he was refused entry to the R70 bus on December 19.

Coming home from Christmas shopping with his son, Mr Allen presented a government ‘exemption card’ downloaded on his phone to the driver.

He also showed a ‘freedom pass’ which allows people with disabilities to travel on public transport for free.

However, the operator said he would put the vehicle out of service unless Mr Allen wore a face mask.

Mr Allen, who is registered as blind and has breathing difficulties, says that wearing a mask can be dangerous as it interferes with what little vision he has left.

The 29-year-old usually goes on buses unchallenged but was taken aback by the “rudeness” of the driver.

He said:

“The driver told me, ‘I’m not moving unless you get off this bus.’”

“We had to get off and wait for another one in the dark.”

“But it was my four-year-old son who was most upset about it, he was really put out.”

Face masks are compulsory on London buses unless exempt

Face masks are compulsory on London buses unless exempt

Mr Allen’s child is partially sighted and was also not wearing a mask.

According to Government guidelines people with vision difficulties are on the list of face mask exemptions.

Sarah Lambert, from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), explained:

"Whilst we encourage everyone who can to wear a mask, some blind and partially sighted people may experience problems with their remaining vision as a result.

“We would advise people to experiment safely at home in order to see if they can find a mask or covering that doesn’t cause problems. However, if your ability to navigate outside your home is impacted, you can go out without one.”

Their website advises that exemption cards and badges can be downloaded from gov.uk, which can be printed off or shown on your phone as proof you are exempt.

Claire Mann, TfL’s Director of Bus Operations, said:

“We are very sorry to hear about Mr Allen’s experience. We offer badges and cards to people exempt from the need to wear a face covering to help make travelling easier for them. This incident is being investigated, however from what has been reported Mr Allen should not have been denied travel.”