Blue badge fraudsters have been warned by Richmond Council to think again about illegally using the disabled passes.

To clamp down on incorrect use of the badge within the borough, the council has teamed up with police and the Blue Badge Fraud Investigation team (BBFI) – a group dedicated to uncovering blue badge fraud against local authorities.

Councillor Nicola Urquhart, the council’s cabinet member for adult’s services, health and housing, said: “This type of fraud potentially costs the council thousands of pounds annually - diverting funds that would be much better spent providing care, and improving the quality of life for vulnerable residents.”

Since January, when investigations from the joint operation began, seven suspects have been caught, but no one has been prosecuted yet.

Paul Slowey, Director at BBFI said: “It is grossly unfair that genuinely disabled people are being deprived a space by shoppers and workers who just want to get free parking, in the most accessible bays in the town centres.”

For more information on whether you are eligible for a blue badge or to report a fraud call 020 8831 6096 or visit richmond.gov.uk/disabled_parking_blue_badge.

Coun Urquhart said: “I would like to encourage residents to come forward and report any blue badge use they see that looks fraudulent, most of the reports we receive are sightings from members of the public.”