Council bosses are refusing to give an autistic boy with severe learning difficulties a blue badge because he is not disabled enough.

Despite Mikey Blake's family having had the blue badge for nine years, they were told that they no longer qualify for it.

A letter from Kent County Council sent to the 13-year-old's family home in The Downings, Herne, says his "degree of disability" is not high enough.

Blue badges allow disabled people and their families to use disabled parking bays for ease and convenience and in restricted areas.

Julie Blake, Mikey's mum, said: "It's absolutely disgraceful that we had it for nine years and then they decided to take it away.

"I understand that they have done this because sadly some people have abused the system. But it has ended up with us receiving upsetting letters from the council."

Mikey, who has three brothers, goes to the St Nicholas Special School in Canterbury.

He suffers from severe autism and learning difficulties which affect his speech, his behaviour and his concept of danger.

Julie and her husband Stuart, who are both 38, insist it is crucial that the family have easy access to their car at all times.

"We are a very close family unit and there are times when do things together like go to Alton Towers," Julie continued.

Audio: Julie Blake, Mikey's mum, on why he needs a blue badge

"We used to be able to park right up near the entrance but no more. There are times when Mikey can have a tantrum and we need to be able to get back to the car.

"Sometimes we have to physically carry him to the car or try to find him if he's wandered off."

The Blakes have been told they could qualify for the blue badge if they move up to a higher mobility allowance rate for Mikey. But they say they do not want any more money, they just want the badge.

A KCC spokesman said: "The family have made contact with us. We have looked into their circumstances and written to them directly.

"In the letter we explain that on this occasion the evidence submitted by the family does not meet the criteria for issuing a blue badge. The family are entitled to submit further evidence, such as a report from a GP."