I have twice attended the accident and emergency department at Barnet General Hospital in the past two weeks — once referred by my GP and once by the walk-in centre at Finchley Memorial Hospital.

I had tried to avoid going to A&E as I know it is extremely busy, but still ended up there.

The first visit was very quick —just over an hour —but the second visit was much longer and more convoluted as my daughter had to see various people and have some tests.

Ultimately we were there for a total of seven hours.

Now had I known this I could have paid for the total amount in one go, but as it was, I had to keep topping up my parking fee as more waiting and more tests transpired. The total was £13.

If, as at Chase Farm Hospital and in the Enfield car parks, you were issued with a ticket when you first arrived and had to pay on exit, this would prevent non-payment and you would pay for the time you used.

Result —guaranteed payment and fewer staff needed to oversee non-payers. Simples!

Mrs Sue Scott

Weirdale Avenue, Barnet