Rosie Jones subjected to abuse on train from Brighton to London

Comedian Rosie Jones says she was subjected to abuse while travelling on a train from Brighton to London on Sunday night.

Rosie, who has cerebral palsy, posted on social media that a group of passengers mocked her and fellow comedian Lee Peart’s voices before throwing a plastic wine bottle at them.

British Transport Police say they were called to East Croydon Station shortly after 10.30pm and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Jones, who recently won Queer Comedian of the Year at the 2025 Diva Awards, has previously spoken about the abuse she receives online because of her disability.

COMMENT – By Philip Keeler, V2 Radio News Editor:

“A quick search of Rosie Jones’ name on social media brings up hundreds of cruel and abusive comments directed at her, mocking the way she speaks because she has cerebral palsy.

"This sort of story is personal for me. I’ve seen how much words — both online and in person — can hurt people with cerebral palsy and other conditions.

"My husband Thomas, who also has CP, has faced similar treatment. We’ve experienced homophobic and ableist abuse, and even had people assume he was drunk because his CP affects his balance and speech. One time, a family tried to snatch our dog off him.

"Like Rosie, Thomas lives a normal, full life. He is the kindest person I know, but I would say that, wouldn't I? 

"It takes extra effort to be understood if you have CP. People should never be judged or mocked for how they look or speak.”

"How, as a society in 2025, have we become so intolerant and ignorant of difference, and degenerated 60 years or more? Is this the fallout from the COVID lockdown still? Us not talking about how Brexit happened? A Trump presidency? or are some people just becoming bored and needing a new hobby to bring excitement back into their lives, instead of night after night sitting on their keyboards and getting angry over social media?

"Be kind to one another, kindness is more powerful than hate."

So what is Cerebral palsy? It's a lifelong condition that affects movement and coordination, caused by damage to the developing brain either before, during, or shortly after birth. It is one of the most common childhood motor disabilities, and its impact can vary widely from person to person.

The condition occurs when parts of the brain responsible for muscle control and movement do not develop properly or are damaged. This can result in muscle stiffness or weakness, involuntary movements, and difficulties with balance or posture. Some people may walk independently, while others require mobility aids or wheelchairs.

Cerebral palsy is not a progressive condition, meaning it does not worsen over time, but its symptoms can change as a person grows. Alongside physical challenges, some individuals may experience related conditions such as speech or swallowing difficulties, learning disabilities, or epilepsy.

While therapy, medical support, and assistive technology can significantly improve quality of life CP does not have a cure. With the right care and understanding, most people with cerebral palsy lead full, independent, and active lives.

For more information about cerebral palsy, visit mencap.org.uk.