Tammy and Daniel Lambert faced a £480 penalty after taking their four kids on a trip to Benalmadena in April last year, but their refusal to pay has now seen the fine soar to £690 following a court defeat.

The Lamberts argued in court that less crowded venues and travel arrangements were crucial for their son, who sported ear defenders during their travels, yet they were reminded 'the law is very clear' as they lost their legal fight.

North Staffordshire Justice Centre learned that their son Riley was awaiting an autism assessment at the time of the holiday and has since received a diagnosis after a two-year delay, reports the Manchester Evening News.

According to Stoke-on-Trent Live, the Trent Vale-based family was initially fined £60 per parent, per child, for the unauthorised getaway.

In court, Tammy explained: "We had to time meals and go later when it was quieter. We were around the pool in a quieter area and when it was quieter.

"We had disability assistance on the plane and getting through the airport. I sent in photographs of Riley walking through the airport wearing his dressing gown, and with his ear defenders and weighted blanket.

"One of the reasons for going then was we were going with a family that understands the struggles we have. We went with our friend and she has an autistic son.

"He was on the waiting list for two years and has had a diagnosis of autism by a specialist - he was diagnosed about six weeks ago. They're also requesting he has an ADHD assessment as well.

"We put our hands up, we did do it the wrong way. The children have good attendance - Riley's is 97 per cent at the moment and the only time they are off is due to illness."

The Lamberts confessed that their four children missed school from April 25 to May 3, 2024.

Despite previously discussing their case with Stoke-on-Trent Live, the Lamberts lost their appeal against the ruling and were slapped with a £407 fine, alongside a combined £163 victim surcharge and £120 in costs.

A magistrate told the Lamberts: "It's important that children attend school, not only for their education but for their social skills. If they are not in school they are being deprived of essential skills, not withstanding the difficulties a disabled child will have.

"While we have every sympathy and acknowledge the difficulties, from what you have told us, the difficulties of having a disabled child, the law is very clear.

"Parents cannot take a child out of school without the prior authority of the child's headmaster. You were issued with a fixed-penalty notice. You decided not to pay - that's why you are here."

The court granted the title's request for the Lamberts and Riley to be named.