A pair of hoteliers who argued with a Muslim guest have been charged with a racist offence.
The couple, Ben and Sharon Vogelenzang, run the Bounty House Hotel but claim takings are 80% down because of the row, which has forced them to sell the business.
Trouble started at the hotel in Aintree, Merseyside, over breakfast one morning in March.
The unnamed guest, who was staying at the hotel while being treated at a nearby hospital, came down to breakfast wearing a hijab - the traditional Muslim head-dress.
The couple had never seen her wear the religious clothing before and a discussion ensued.
It is alleged Dutch-born Mr Vogelenzang said Mohammed, the founder of Islam, was a warlord.
He denies the claims.
It is also claimed that Mrs Vogelenzang, 54, who has run the hotel with her husband for six years, described the hijab as a form of bondage.
The guest complained to police and the couple were charged under the 1986 Public Order Act - with using “threatening, abusive or insulting words” which were “religiously aggravated”.
They will stand trial at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on December 8.
The Vogelenzangs were unavailable for comment but are being backed by The Christian Institute.
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