The drivers were convicted at Luton Magistrates’ Court this week (1 October) after being spotted by our officers during a targeted enforcement exercise in May 2024.

The following individuals were convicted:

Kathryn Loveday, of Dormer Avenue, Wing, was convicted after falsely stating that her husband, the Blue Badge holder, had been dropped off when she parked in a disabled bay. CCTV evidence disproved her claims, leading to her conviction. She was fined and received penalties of £445.

Emma Welch, of Westoning Road, Harlington, was found to be using her deceased mother’s cancelled Blue Badge and admitted to the court that she mistakenly thought she could use it because she had paid for it before her mother passed away. She received fines and penalties totalling £284.

Lorraine Warnock, of Alwins Field, Linslade was found to be using her father’s Blue Badge while parking to collect his prescriptions, without the badge holder being present. She received fine and penalties amounting to £206.

Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways, said:

These convictions highlight the importance of protecting the integrity of the Blue Badge system. Misuse deprives genuine badge holders of accessible parking spaces.

Our enforcement actions and the resulting penalties send a clear message that we will not tolerate any abuse of this service, and those who misuse it will be held accountable. We will continue our enforcement efforts to protect the rights of our disabled residents.

If you suspect someone of illegally using a Blue Badge, you can report them to the council by calling 0300 300 4154 or by emailing car.badges@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.