Carole Gosling, of Barton Close, Kingsbridge, writes:

On Saturday, March 4, my husband and I took two visitors to the Royal William Yard, Plymouth, for lunch at the River Cottage Cafe. On ­previous visits we have paid the parking fee just prior to leaving, so this is what we did.

We walked back to the car via the parking machine, paid the £5 fee and returned to the car. We got into the car and then noticed something under the wipers. It was a parking ticket.

Unbeknown to us the ­parking became pay and ­display in December last year. We were parked in a disabled bay displaying my Blue Badge and had a valid parking ticket, so I felt a little upset.

One of the parking company employees had watched us get into the car and out again, so I went to talk to him. He explained that, although he was sorry, the system was automated and he could not cancel the ­ticket even though we had paid in good faith – but I could appeal.

My first appeal was dismissed and I am now proceeding with the independent appeals system.

The fee has increased from £35 to £60 – and it can reach £100!

The only signs that we saw on the way out indicating that it was now pay and display were two small A-boards, one either side of the entrance arch into the yard. Not easy to see as you drive in. Do not get caught.