I was surprised to receive a parking ticket on my car, which was parked outside my house on the road where I live, for not displaying a valid parking permit.

My wife and I both pay for and have had valid residents’ parking permits for many years.

On closer inspection, I saw that the permit had become dislodged from its plastic wallet and had fallen on to the passenger seat.

When I challenged the PCN with proof of my valid, £80 a year permit, I was extremely surprised to receive a letter saying that the PCN will not be cancelled and the fine will stand as they were satisfied a contravention had taken place.

I understand that if they are following the letter of the law, Kingston Council can make me pay the fine.

After speaking to staff at the council and getting nowhere, it has left me astounded at their lack of common sense, understanding and reasonableness in this issue and in not cancelling the ticket.

The end result is we pay Kingston Council for two parking permits a year and they are still making me pay another £60 parking fine, or £110 if I challenge again.

Their behaviour is petty, rule-enforcing and pennypinching to say the least.

Shame on you, Kingston Council.

ASHLEY REAKS
Kingston