A blind world record-holding sportsman from Banbury was refused entry into an Oxford restaurant because of his guide dog.

Steve Cunningham said he felt humiliated when staff at Bella Pasta in George Street told him to leave.

The 40-year-old captain of the blind England football team became the fastest blind person on land and water after breaking the world powerboat record in 2000.

He was turned away from the Italian chain restaurant while looking for somewhere to have a meal with a friend on June 24.

Staff said his German Shepherd guide dog, Troy, was not allowed because of a policy against animals in the restaurant.

The experience was in stark contrast to Mr Cunningham's treatment at his local pub, The Pepper-Pot, in Burchester Place, Banbury, where he has inspired managers Chris Brindle and Vicky Gomery to introduce special Braille and large print menus for blind and elderly customers.

After the Oxford Mail contacted Bella Pasta, the restaurant apologised and offered him a free meal.

Mr Cunningham, of Winchester Close, has been blind since he was 12.

He said: "It was humiliating and embarrassing, especially when I have worked so hard to show what disabled people can achieve and fought for equal access and opportunity."

Finlay Scott, chief executive of Bella Pasta, said the company was issuing an urgent reminder to all its branches that guide dogs were welcome.

He said: "We apologise to Mr Cunningham. We have clearly made a mistake."

The incident happened two days before Mr Cunningham took part in a golf day at Rye Hill Golf Club in Milcombe, near Banbury, to promote the European Year of Disabled People.

The fundraising event was organised by employees at the Banbury office of Remploy, the UK's largest employer of disabled people.