Noel and Sue Radford, parents of Britain’s largest family, are known for starring in the Channel 5 series 22 Kids and Counting.
The couple, from Morecambe in Lancashire, have built their family over more than 30 years.
They welcomed their first child, Christopher, when Sue was 14 and Noel was 18.
The pair married three years later and continued growing their family over the decades.
Their children are Chris, 35, Sophie, 31, Chloe, 29, Jack, 28, Daniel, 26, Luke, 24, Millie, 23, Katie, 22, James, 21, Ellie, 19, Aimee, 18, Josh, 17, Max, 16, Tillie, 14, Oscar, 13, Casper, 12, Haillie, nine, Phoebe, eight, Archie, seven, Bonnie, six, and Heidi, five.
The couple also have 11 grandchildren.
One of their children, Alfie, was stillborn, which the family has previously spoken about publicly.
$70,000 Disney World birthday celebration
The Radfords recently faced criticism after taking a luxury vacation to Walt Disney World in Florida.
The trip was organised to celebrate Sue Radford’s 50th birthday in April 2025.
Reports estimate the family spent approximately $70,000 on the holiday.
The cost covered flights, accommodation, and theme park passes for their children and grandchildren.
It is reported that flights alone cost around $35,245.
Despite previously saying they were “feeling the pinch” financially, the family proceeded with the celebration.
Sue marked her birthday on March 22, 2025, joking that she was “49 plus one,” according to The Mirror.
The Radfords support themselves through their bakery business, Radford’s Pie Company.
They purchased the business in 1999 and also earn income from television work and social media partnerships.
During the trip, the family shared photos on Instagram from inside the theme parks.
Images showed them posing with Donald Duck and Sue wearing Minnie Mouse ears while holding a large drink.
The holiday was not without complications for the large group.
Millie Radford, aged 24, and her two children were left stranded at the airport. Their ESTA travel certificates had expired before departure.
Noel Radford stayed behind to help them reapply. They joined the rest of the family in Florida the following day.
Chloe Radford, aged 29, did not attend the trip. She was expecting her second child at the time.
Her absence prompted criticism from some observers online.
Court appearance and school attendance fines
Only weeks after returning from Florida, the Radfords were seen travelling back to the state again in June.
However, the birthday celebration had already led to further consequences.
Noel and Sue Radford appeared before Preston Magistrates Court. They were found guilty of failing to ensure regular school attendance for four of their children.
The absences occurred between March 24 and May 1, 2025.
Each parent was fined $88 per child. They were also ordered to pay $160 in court costs. The total penalty added $1,024 to the cost of the Florida trip.
A spokesperson for Lancashire County Council defended the decision to pursue legal action.
“Ensuring young people receive a good education and have a good start in life is one of our key priorities,” the spokesperson said, per UNILAD.
“Evidence shows that attainment is linked to attendance, so supporting our schools with this issue is important.”
The spokesperson said the decision to authorise absences rests with school headteachers.
They explained that penalty notices are available if requested by schools.
“It is the court that determines whether a fine should be issued,” they added.
“The laws on attendance are very clear and there are some legitimate reasons why pupils can’t always go to school.”
“We always encourage schools to work closely with parents to reduce unauthorised absences,” the statement continued.
“Our aim is to ensure that children and young people attend school and receive a good education.”
UK rules on school attendance and holidays
Under UK education law, parents can face fines or legal action for unauthorised school absences.
Taking children out of school during term time generally requires special permission.
According to government guidance, holidays are not usually considered exceptional circumstances.
Schools and local councils can issue fines if absences are not authorised.
Parents may be fined up to $107 per child. The fine can increase to $215 if it is not paid within 21 days.
From the 2024 to 2025 school year, parents can receive up to two fines per child over three years.
Failure to pay fines can result in further court proceedings.
Featured image credit: @theradfordfamily/Instagram
