Woop, woop, summer has arrived. Like everyone else I have been stocking up on BBQ supplies and frequenting beer gardens. It’s so lovely to see everyone in high spirits and enjoying themselves.

On Saturday I was invited to a BBQ. There was great company, great food and an excellent jug of Pimms.

As the sun set talk moved to where to move to next and it was decided that we would go to a gig.

I’m not sure if my readership is of clubbing age but luckily I have the freedom to write about what’s annoyed me recently so here goes...

While I’m not 21 anymore I still like a late night out.

The problem is this – I’m short. I’m technically 6ft tall but in reality closer to 3ft or 4ft in my wheels.

Imagine a room full of people, probably tipsy or worse, all 5ft or higher. Add some loud music, dancing and the experience becomes stressful and far from enjoyable. I feel like an outsider, people stare, lots of apologies with lots of well intentioned people offering help. It’s really an odd situation.

Once I hit the dance floor I can’t hear anyone, my dancing is pitiful at best and people don’t see me.

I basically become a slightly miserable trip hazard. Add to that access issues, no disabled loo etc etc. Not exactly alluring is it?

On this occasion I decided to bow out and head home. It’s my issue and my disability and others should do what they want.

My friends are great and always inclusive but since becoming a wheelchair user I have found that my social life is more home based where I can control the volume, go to the loo and feel fully involved in the fun.

Then I got thinking... what if you have a hearing or visual impairment?

Clubbing or gigs wouldn’t be much fun with a hearing aid trying to filter out the music from the background rabble. And if you have a visual impairment it must be a real minefield. I’m not saying it’s not possible – just that it’s not an equivalent experience as it is for someone without a disability.

It’s odd that summer makes people happy but often changes in public behaviour reinforce the limitations of having a disability and the feeling of being different.

Anyway it’s hot outside and if I can’t go clubbing I definitely want an excellent tan...

Throw another shrimp on the barbie.