ANGRY drivers in Watchet have been issued parking tickets after being caught out by a change in the temporary regime.

West Somerset Council introduced unlimited free parking in the Anchor Street car park in the town to help deal with the disruption while roadworks for the Washford Cross roundabout were ongoing.

The free parking began on December 1 and was supposed to last until the end of March, but the council has cut the period short.

One Williton resident, a Mr Wallace, was caught out by the change on Monday, February 16, when he decided to drive to work instead of cycle.

He said: “I normally cycle to work, but that morning I had a puncture and thought that as there was free parking in Watchet I’d drive.

“I didn’t know they’d changed it and I’m so angry that I’ve now got a fine for £25. “I’m not the only one – I know about others, too.

“Why did they issue all the parking tickets and not realise people didn’t know the rules had changed?

“I’m not someone who just doesn’t pay for a ticket – I genuinely didn’t know the rules had changed. “I’m not paying it – I’m currently disputing it.”

A spokeswoman for West Somerset Council said the unlimited free parking had been removed because it was not intended to be used for all-day parking.

She said: “Highly visible advance notices warning of the change were put up in the car park the week before clearly stating the charging regime.

“These were placed where the previous signs advertising the free parking had been sited “As from Saturday, February 14, the car park returned to ‘pay and display’.

“However, the council is allowing free parking after 3pm from that date, extended to Saturday, July 4.

“Permit holders were notified of the decision and, as stated, new advisory signs were put in place. “The situation in Anchor Street is being monitored.”