An Edgware man hit by an “unreasonable” parking fine when he parked in a doctor's parking bay has won his appeal - because the bay had the wrong signs.

Gary Owen of Golders Close was fined £110 by Barnet Borough Council for parking in a doctor’s parking bay in The Rise in Edgware at 8.50pm, while he was visiting a neighbouring synagogue.

Mr Owen, who works as an accountant, appealed the fine on the grounds the sign stating “Doctor's Permit Holders Only" was badly positioned and the markings faded and difficult to read, especially at night.

He assumed restrictions applied from 8am until 8pm rather than 24 hours as the penalty notice he received suggested.

A council officer confirmed restrictions were only in place between 8am and 8pm throughout the week and no new orders had been made stating parking restrictions applied 24 hours a day, even though the signs erected suggested restrictions were in place all day.

The officer added the council would ask contractors NSL to cancel the fine and would ensure the signs were changed.

Mr Owen said: “I am absolutely delighted this ticket has been cancelled and my appeal has been justified. 

“The council is now going to clarify the situation and put up new signs, which will enable people to park from 8pm to 8am and thereby help ease the limited parking in the area. 

“This will also prevent other people from inadvertently being issued a ticket and being stung.”