AN amputee’s specially-adapted car has been taken away after he lost a row over his benefits. Robert Oxley was told to hand the keys back to the charity, Motability, when a representative came to collect the vehicle.

He has used the car to get to work at Flakt Woods, in Colchester, since losing his right leg in a motorbike accident three years ago.

Mr Oxley has been forced to give up the car after Government officials took stopped his disability living allowance on the grounds he is able to stand.

Mr Oxley, 33, of Lime Avenue, Colchester, said: “I’m feeling a bit gutted, a bit depressed and wondering what’s going to happen.

“It’s horrible knowing I’m going to have to rely on someone to get me in to work each day.”

He said he unable to catch a bus, because he could not put much weight on his other leg, which was also badly injured in the crash.

The Department for Work and Pensions has suggested he might be entitled to free taxi fares under a Government-funded scheme.

Mr Oxley said: “I have two young children. My family are relying on me. I can’t be out of a job.

“I want to work. I’m a hard-working taxpayer and I want to get on with my life.

“I pay all my taxes and don’t seem to get anything in return, while others don’t pay anything and get given everything.”

Colchester MP Bob Russell, who has campaigned on Mr Oxley’s behalf, said: “ I’m absolutely furious.

“I’m going to pursue this with every sinew in my body, so that common sense can prevail. It is so, so unfair and so unnecessary.

“I can’t believe how callous the system has been. This is not justice. I think society will be appalled.”

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: “Disability living allowance can be paid to help with mobility costs for people who are unable to move around.

“Independent tribunals can look into appeal cases to ensure decisions have been made correctly.

“We have contacted Mr Oxley to discuss whether there is other support that could be available to him, such as the Access to Work scheme.”