A gym-goer from Southall who has autism has successfully sued fitness giants Virgin Active after being called "stupid" by a member of staff – without the help of legal experts.

Ketan Aggarwal, 30, was at a spin class at his regular Virgin Active gym in Stockley Park , Hayes , when the instructor called him “stupid” in front of the entire class.

After complaining to Virgin Active, Mr Aggarwal said he was told to go back to the class – so instead he opted to take them to court for disability discrimination.

He told getwestlondon : “If something like that happens and we leave and run away I don't think that fixes anything.

“I'm one of those morals and principles people. It's not always about money.”

Mr Aggarwal was awarded £1,200 and a letter of apology

Mr Aggarwal had attended a spin class at the gym when another member complained that the music was slow, and he agreed.

He said the instructor then started shouting at him in front of the class.

Mr Aggarwal said: “He was a good instructor. Some times people have their bad days.

“He called me stupid twice.

“He wasn't a bad instructor. He was motivating but the music wasn't great.

“He was screaming and shouting down the microphone.”

Mr Aggarwal was awarded £1,200 by a judge at Uxbridge County Court when the hearing concluded earlier this month.

Virgin Active was ordered to apologise to Mr Aggarwal and to consider amending its equality training for staff.

A spokesman for Virgin Active said: “We believe in offering a welcoming, inclusive and friendly environment for our members.

“We are very sorry that on this occasion we failed to do that, and are committed to reviewing our ongoing training to ensure the experience for all members is of the highest quality.”

Mr Aggarwal said he would continue to use the gym despite his ordeal.

The instructor no longer works at the gym.

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