‘Never expected’

I am very sad to report what happened to me at Jordan airport on November 20, on my way back to London.

I am 87 and my walking stick — a very ornate, wooden, precious gift — was taken off me.

I was told it was forbidden, despite my entreaties that I could not walk the long distances at the airport without it.

My UK passport was immediately taken; I was told we would not travel unless I gave it up.

The security officer refused to give his name or let my wife take his name. I pointed out that all the sticks that other wheelchair users and older passengers had were also wooden sticks. No one else had a stick taken from them.

I have used this stick on international flights around the world and this has not happened.

At best, this was someone making a decision because my walking stick looked different; at worst, it was because it was and looked very expensive.

It is a sad reflection to me about Jordan; in the past, there was always such kindliness and courtesy.

My wife and I have great affection for Jordan, and its hospitality and kindness.

She has been coming to work on various projects with Jordanians since 1985, most particularly doing PhD research on the Bani Hamida women weavers.

I would never have expected such a thing — to leave an elderly person without support.

The Royal Jordanian manager did come to remonstrate, since the security official finally said we would not fly.

The manager said he would try to get the stick put in the hold (so it was possible to fly with it), but nothing arrived when we reached London.

Please forewarn other elderly visitors of what might happen to them in Jordan. At least do not bring a much loved, valuable item.

Peter Ind,
UK