I CANNOT be the only one that has seen Fixed Penalty notices being produced at alarming speed on cars parked opposite Tesco in Market Street!

This parking area created some months ago has a sign that states "Loading Monday-Saturday between 8am-6pm" and on the same sign directly underneath there is the Logo for Disabled and the wording "Parking for Disabled Monday-Saturday 6pm-8am".

Yes when you study it closely and read it several times you can see that during the day it should remain empty - this begs the question of "why?" Tesco has its own loading bay at the rear and opposite are banks and building societies - I suppose loading groceries into cars could be the answer to that one.

However what I can't understand is why any disabled person would wish to park from early evening, overnight to early morning in a town centre position not a residential area.

I suppose stretching one's imagination it might just be for a long wait before the night-club opens and a long stay making the waiting time worth while!

The signing is to say the least ambiguous and this was admitted by the traffic warden issuing the tickets (three while I was talking to her!).

I telephoned Carrick, having obtained the correct department from the traffic warden.

The gentleman confirmed that I was one of many telephone complaints and that although tickets had been issued a considerable number had been rescinded - rather a waste of time and ratepayers money I think!

I suggested a more clearly worded sign would be advantageous or to designate the parking area to either "loading" or "parking for disabled". Needless to say this became a buck passing point and I was told these were the only signs available and it would then become the remit of County Highways. He did say he would pass on my comments to a higher authority...but I won't hold my breath.

Maybe "Skipper" or our town centre manager could bring common sense to bear?

Christine A Morris address supplied