Since the Times Series launched its campaign for half an hour's free parking in high streets and car parks across Barnet, the results have been astounding.

Nearly 4,000 people have signed our petition both on paper and online and the paper has now partnered with the Barnet Society in an effort to garner more support.

Traders and shoppers have previously told us the current pay-by-phone or bank card system puts people off visiting the area, and that 30 minutes' free parking would make the world of difference.

Isabella Bengoechea went out on the streets of Barnet to find out what you think...

Jenny Hoppen, 64, of Mill Hill said: “It’s an excellent campaign. The current system has been causing big problems and it puts people off going to town.

“Shops have lost business and people are going elsewhere.”

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Colin Harris, 70, of Finchley said: “It’s a good idea, but if you’re going for half an hour why not go for the whole caboodle and try and get us an hour?”

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Fabray Ian, 65, of Barnet said: “The idea is a good one. The question is just how it would work in practice.

“My wife drives but parking we know is a problem so we take the bus.”

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Mike Paphitis, 53, of East Finchley said: “A scheme like that would really help the area.”

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Viola Slodzinski, 50, of East Finchley said: “I hear customers complaining a lot about the parking “Even if they have to come in for one thing, or just a few minutes it is a lot of effort.

“Some free parking would help people I think.”

Mark Abbott, 58, Beech Drive, East Finchley said: “I agree something needs to be done.

“The current system makes me mad.”

Click here to sign our petition: http://petitions.barnet.gov.uk/30MinutesFree/. To display hand-written petitions in your shop e-mail aslater@london.newsquest.co.uk