A CHARITY fundraiser has accused Bury Council of discrimination after permission was refused for a car event.

Charlene Whalley, of Woodhill, Bury, organised a car meet for July 29 at Burrs Country Park.

But she claims the council refused permission over concerns that it would cause anti-social behaviour.

Miss Whalley said: “It is wrong to say that if you like cars then you’re linked to anti-social behaviour.”

She claims that she had already gained permission from Bury Council to host the event but says this was revoked when she informed Greater Manchester Police that it was taking place.

Her claims have been refuted by Bury Council.

A spokesman said: “We were contacted only two days before the proposed event, which is far too short notice to ensure that the necessary arrangements are in place.

“Furthermore, the police had expressed concerns to us about this event which, as a responsible authority, we have to take into account.”

He added: “We informed Ms Whalley about this, and she decided to drop her plans to hold the event at Burrs.”

The car meet was one of a series of events Miss Whalley had planned in a bid to raise money for Manchester Children’s Hospital, following the Manchester bombing attack.

Previously, she has done a bikini car wash and a shark dive.

Miss Whalley explained: “For most people, car meets are what they do instead of nights out, because they spend a lot of money doing up their cars and want to show them off.

“The idea was that I would raffle off car parts that had been donated to me, to raise money for the children’s hospital.”

The Bury Council spokesman said that, due to the number of events planned each year, a handy guide is available which covers everything an event organiser should consider.

He said: “The vast majority of people follow the guidance, and their events go without a hitch.”

He added: “We are happy to discuss any plans Ms Whalley may have for future events, and urge her to contact us well in advance.”

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