Transsexual told she can't use ladies' toilets

Jan 31 2010 by Sophie Doughty, Sunday Sun

A PRE-OP transsexual was left hurt and humiliated when staff at her local pub told her she could no longer use the ladies’ loos.

Katrina Harte, who is awaiting surgery that will transform her from a man to a woman, has been a regular customer at the Briar Dene, in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, since she was 18-years-old.

But over the last 20 years, the former engineer had been hiding the emotional torment of feeling she had been born the wrong gender.

In recent years Katrina, 46, from North Shields, took the brave decision to undergo a sex change op, and is now awaiting the life-changing surgery.

And three years ago she finally plucked up the courage to come out completely and dress as a woman in public.

At first Katrina’s confidence was bolstered by drinkers and bar staff at the Briar Dene, who immediately accepted her lifestyle choice and continued to welcome her at the pub.

But four weeks ago she was stunned when a member of staff approached her and told her she was no longer allowed to go in the bar’s ladies toilets, and would now have to use the disabled facilities, because she is neither a man nor a woman.

She said: “I was just having a drink and a conversation and then I was approached by a member of staff and they told me I had to stop using the ladies’ toilets and use the disabled toilets instead.

“They told me it was against the law, but I have never heard of any such law.

“I just felt sick and betrayed. It is hard enough for transsexuals to find pubs to drink in.