Dear Sir,

Like many Newtonians I was happy when Aldi came to Town, as I previously had to travel to Darlington or Tindale Crescent. I visited the store on the 7th December to do my weekly shop, and incorporated other errands in the Town Centre.

I later received a parking charge notice from Parking Eye Car Park Management, stating I was only allowed an hour and I had exceeded my allowed time. (I was there for 1 hour 52 minutes, according to their records).

The parking charge amount due was £70.00, discounted to £40.00 if I paid within 14 days.

I rang Aldi head office and spoke to a pleasant lady, and explained that I had incorporated some errands that day, and informed her how much money I had spent at the store over the last four weeks. I explained that we have free car parking in Newton Aycliffe, so many locals are used to parking in one car park and doing all their shopping.

On this occasion she has cancelled the fine, but I would be grateful if you could inform all your readers about this situation.

Melanie Varley

School Aycliffe