Not content with increasing our local taxes, local authorities have created other methods of generating revenue, including parking penalties. In April, I visited the Hitchin swimming pool with my family and when I returned to the car noticed a parking tic

Not content with increasing our local taxes, local authorities have created other methods of generating revenue, including parking penalties.

In April, I visited the Hitchin swimming pool with my family and when I returned to the car noticed a parking ticket on the window.

Having not visited this pool for over a year I did not realise they had introduced pay and display. Having contacted the leisure centre I was informed by a member of staff that the reason parking charges were introduced was to deter people who were not using the leisure facilities from parking there.

I was also informed that the parking fee was refunded to those using the facilities when handing in the receipt. I appealed against the penalty and had the appeal rejected despite having submitted as proof, a copy of the receipt of my visit with the family to the swimming pool.

I am sure I am not the only person who is fed up with the way these penalties are issued with the fine being doubled if not paid within 14 days leaving no room for appeal. In any case how can you possibly justify a fine of £30 doubling to £60 for parking in a public facility car park?

TREVOR COLE, Address supplied