A father who played a part in breaking his own son’s legs and leaving him permanently scarred has had an appeal against his 10-year prison sentence rejected.

Antony Smith was locked up in February for leaving baby Tony, then 41 days old, at death’s door with infections and multiple fractures.

It emerged earlier this month that the 46-year-old was applying to have his prison term slashed, but his request was quashed at a Court of Appeal hearing this morning.

Tony's adoptive family, the Hudgells from King's Hill, were also in court to hear the development, which comes just days after the tot's fourth birthday.

Mum Paula said: "The three judges praised what we've done for Tony, which was very emotional."

The family have been campaigning for tougher sentences for child abusers and have reached 4,000 signatures on their petition.

A group of campaigners, known as Bear's Army, also took to the streets of Maidstone earlier this week to build up support.

There has also been time to celebrate Tony's fourth birthday. At the weekend a pirate-themed party was held.

The petition can be signed at the Kent Messenger’s office in Middle Row, Maidstone.