AN Uxbridge mother was ordered to pay almost £3,000 after fraudulently using a Blue Badge to get a parking space during the school run.

Carly Kent, 43, of Chancel Close, was convicted of misuse of a disabled person’s badge during a hearing at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on 20 June. 

It followed an investigation by Hillingdon Council’s counter-fraud team.

The team discovered she was using the badge to park on double-yellow lines, without the badge holder present. The badge belonged to her late mother.

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “This is an appalling case. The misuse of Blue Badges is just not acceptable.

"It prevents our most vulnerable residents and visitors who have genuine needs from parking within easy access to the businesses and services they rely on. 

“We’ll always do everything in our power to clamp down on fraudsters, take action and stamp out this selfish behaviour in our borough.”  

The defendant was ordered to pay a fine of £440, a victim surcharge of £176 and the council’s prosecution costs of £2,342.  

If you suspect someone is misusing a Blue Badge, you can report it on 0800 389 8313, or by emailing fraud@hillingdon.gov.uk.