Noel and Sue Radford, parents of Britain’s largest brood, are facing fines after pulling their kids out of school for a lavish £52,000 trip to Disney World in Florida.
Luxury Birthday Break Lands Family in Hot Water
The Radfords splashed out on the extravagant holiday to celebrate Sue’s 50th birthday in April 2025. Despite saying last year they were ‘feeling the pinch’, the no-expense-spared getaway has now cost them even more after the fines were handed down at Preston Magistrates Court.
The couple from Morecambe, Lancashire, were found guilty of failing to ensure regular school attendance for four children between March 24 and May 1, 2025. Each child dragged away from lessons means a £65 fine plus £118 court costs – totalling an extra £756 on top of the Florida trip.
Family Fame Meets School Rules
The Radfords shot to fame with Channel 5 show 22 Kids and Counting, chronicling their life with 22 children and 15 grandchildren. Noel and Sue shared Instagram snaps from the birthday bash, including photos with Donald Duck and Sue posing in Minnie Mouse ears.
The holiday included flights, accommodation, and park passes for their own kids plus 11 grandchildren. The only family member left behind was 29-year-old daughter Chloe, who was due to have her second child.
The trip wasn’t without drama. 24-year-old Millie Radford and her two children got stuck at the airport after their ESTA travel authorizations had expired. Noel stayed behind to sort their paperwork while the rest flew on, joining them the next day.
School Absence Laws Spell Trouble
UK law is clear: parents can be prosecuted if they fail to provide education. Holidays during term time aren’t usually excused unless the school grants permission or there are exceptional circumstances.
Holidays during term time are generally not considered exceptional, meaning parents cannot usually take children out of school for holidays.
Despite their fame and fortune, the Radfords were reminded that even the biggest families must follow the rules.
