Travel2 min(s) read
What mom has said as Britain's biggest family with 22 children taken to court over $70,000 Disney vacation
Sue Radford has spoken out after she and her husband Noel were fined for taking their children out of school to go on a £52,000 ($70,000) family holiday to Disney World in Florida.
The couple, known for their TV series 22 Kids and Counting, traveled from Morecambe to the US in May to celebrate Sue’s 50th birthday.
While their daughter Chloe, 29, stayed behind due to her pregnancy, several of their children and grandchildren joined the trip. The cost of the holiday didn’t stop at flights and accommodation — the couple were also fined in court over school absences.
Sue defends choice to travel
Sue previously addressed the cost of holiday travel, pointing out how prices skyrocket during official school breaks.
She shared a screenshot showing flights to Orlando for just £196 per person back in May, writing on Instagram: "Anyone looking at flights to Florida this month these are crazy low. Then they wonder why parents take kids out of school."
Although she hasn't commented on the court ruling directly, her earlier posts suggest she believes parents are pushed into tough decisions due to pricing.
Fine reflects attendance rules in the UK
The court found the Radfords guilty of failing to ensure regular attendance for four of their children between March 24 and May 1 2025.
They were fined £65 per child, plus £118 in costs, bringing the total to £756. Under current rules, family holidays are not considered a valid reason for missing school. Local councils can issue fines if requested by schools, and final decisions on whether absences are excused rest with headteachers.
Council responds to the case
A spokesperson for Lancashire County Council said per The Mirror: "Ensuring young people receive a good education and have a good start in life is one of our key priorities. Evidence shows that attainment is linked to attendance, so supporting our schools with this issue is important."
They added that while there are legitimate reasons why some pupils may miss school, holidays typically do not qualify. The Radford family has not issued a statement following the court outcome.