ALISON Leach suffers from a painful neurological condition that affect her walking and balance.

She has a disability badge and a mobility vehicle but, because she doesn’t look disabled until she walks some distance, has had to suffer the disapproval of bystanders who think she’s not entitled to either badge or vehicle.

She is one of the thousands of people suffering from hidden disabilities who, nevertheless, need their special vehicle and disabled parking space.

Unfortunately, people are very quick to judge today – and just as quick to voice their opinion – and individuals like Alison often have to suffer even more as a result. Sometimes, such helpful people actually leave notices on windscreens pointing out their views.

While, very occasionally, cheats are unmasked who should not have disability privileges, it’s safe to say that the vast majority of those with badges and vehicles need them.

So, please, just don’t be so quick to judge. Things are definitely not always as they seem so don’t set yourself up as judge and jury.