I RECEIVED a parking fine on Friday, January 12, at the Warner Village Cinema at Conway Park, Birkenhead.

I am absolutely livid, as there is no other car park in Birkenhead that charges at 7pm. I can understand that to charge during the normal working day is acceptable, but at that time in the evening, in a leisure area, is totally absurd.

Having never been to this cinema, I was not aware payment was necessary. I saw the pay and display machine and did not think it would be relevant, especially with the Europa Sports Centre being on the same site. You do not have to pay to park at the Oval or Grange Road West Sports Centre.

This was part of a birthday treat for a friend and, as we were in separate cars, and both received a £20 ticket, it turned into a very expensive evening. I usually go to the Odeon in Bromborough, where parking is free. That is where I will be spending my money in future.

I am sure that I am not the only person to be caught out and I can only assume that catching out unsuspecting people at such a late hour must be a 'good earner' for the council.

As a Wirral council taxpayer I consider the monies spent on the Conway Park area a waste. Surely, the point is to encourage people to come into Birkenhead to spend leisure time and money, but to charge for parking when using a recreational facility is complete stupidity.

Mrs Ellen Kerr,

Marlston Avenue, Irby.