"As with speed cameras there is no one regulating the regulators in order to keep them honest. Some local councils have proved the old addage that absolute power corrupts absolutely, especially where there is the financial incentive of retaining the proceeds of decriminalised parking enforcement."

"If it is going to take Consumer Power to make the authorities toe the line, so be it. We are right behind Neil and his case and we shall be making a donation to the fund."

"The AA says motorists rightly expect the highest standard of accountability and compliance with the law and guidance regarding de-criminalised parking enforcement. It is unacceptable that some councils, which are granted parking enforcement powers by the Department for Transport, break the rules themselves."

"If they persist in breaking laws and rules after being advised of their errors they deserve to be challenged. However, the AA says things must be kept in proportion – we do need fair parking enforcement but some local authorities taint the good authorities that recognise and honour their responsibilities to the parking public."