A couple from Essex, Adrian and Joanne Fenton, initially faced a £1,500 fine after they reported finding a young stowaway hidden on their motorhome during a trip from France back to the UK. The fine has now been revoked.
The Fentons, who live in Heybridge, were penalized by the Home Office for not ensuring that no unauthorized person was hidden in their vehicle when they crossed the Channel. The boy, later identified as a 16-year-old from Sudan, had hidden himself in the bike rack on the outside of their motorhome during their six-hour journey through the Channel Tunnel from Calais.
Upon discovering the boy when they opened the bike rack cover, the couple immediately contacted the police. They were later informed via email that they would be fined by the Home Office, with the department explaining that such penalties aim to address negligence rather than criminal acts.
Adrian Fenton expressed his surprise at the fine, stating he believed he was acting correctly by notifying the authorities. The couple has since received another email from Border Force, a division of the Home Office, informing them that the fine has been nullified.
Joanne Fenton expressed her relief over the decision, stating that while the incident won't deter them from future travels with their motorhome, they plan to be extra cautious by not using covers on their bike rack. Adrian Fenton suggested that the Home Office should reassess its policies to ensure they don't unfairly target travelers. He emphasized that those who report such incidents should not face penalties, as they are acting morally and responsibly.