Asda plans to trial the tough regime for 12 months

The company is piloting the scheme at stores in Merseyside but is planning to roll it out across the country.

Shoppers who park in disabled bays without displaying a blue badge will be fined, as will those using mother and baby spaces without young children.

Parking firm Town and City Parking has won the contract to enforce the parking rules and issue fines.

It has already begun regular patrols at stores in Aintree, Breck Road and Walton, all in Liverpool, and in Skelmersdale and Sefton.

'Real struggle'

Paul Hedley, Asda's customer service manager, said: "The actions of the few have a huge impact on many.

"Most of us are guilty of taking our able-bodied status for granted.

"That means many of us simply don't realise just how hard crossing a car park with shopping can be if walking is a real struggle.

"Similarly, those of us who aren't parents are often surprised to learn that, without wide parking spaces, it's almost impossible to remove a baby's car seat from a car."

Asda says it wants to give the trial 12 months "to assess the impact on seasonal shopping", such as the Christmas and summer periods.