MARKS & Spencer in Kendal are seeking planning consent to install number plate recognition cameras on their car park.

It will be interesting to see what customers' reactions are, as the operation of this type of camera system in other car parks has caused no end of problems.

On the subject of parking fees, the National Trust are asking visitors to Sizergh to donate £2 for one hour's parking until parking machines are installed, when fixed charges will apply to non NT members (trust member get free parking with their membership).

Many non members use the popular café at Sizergh which may well see a decrease in customers in the low season.

Owners and operators of car parks within the Lakes and surrounding area need to realise that the paying public and, in particular, visitors will only be prepared to pay so much when it comes to parking charges.

Peter Gaukroger

Kendal