A diabetic woman who drove a hole through Government red tape has called on others to follow her lead.

Jackie Banks, 58, had her licence taken away after a lifetime of accident-free driving - and won it back ten months later in a costly court battle against the DVLA.

Now, at home in Warwick Road, Rayleigh, she is helping others launch their own fights to get licences returned.

She has called for an end to what she believes is unfair and unnecessary discrimination against many who suffer from a condition known as diabetic retinopathy.

Jackie said: "There has been a division between the most senior of medical experts and the DVLA over eye tests. Where the likes of the world-famous Moorfields Hospital has proved people like me are perfectly safe and fit to drive, the Government's agency has operated under totally different guidelines.

"Many people have been banned after openly and honestly stating on licence application renewals they have diabetes."

Letters of support include some from former Rochford and Rayleigh MP Dr Michael Clark, and from a Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen Mother.

In private letters, the aide to the Queen Mother, who had heard of Jackie's fight, expressed congratulations at her court victory.

Victory - diabetic Jackie Banks has won back her driving licence

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