I have just returned from a holiday in a region of France that is primarily rural but also heavily reliant on tourism - does that sound familiar?

Of the many joys, one was car parking.

In smaller villages and towns it was usually free and there was plenty of it. In larger towns and cities there were charges for parking close to the centre. Parking was always free between 7pm and 9am and all day on Sundays. Otherwise charges were made at no more than 12 pence per 15 minutes. In some areas a full days parking could be had for just £3.

Parking tickets were bought from machines that took either cards or cash and offered instructions in five different languages.

It seems to me that the French local authorities, recognising the importance of visitors to their region, have taken a sensible and helpful approach to the issue of car parking. Local businesses were always busy and there were plenty of happy visitors of all nationalities.

If only our own local authorities would think of how to encourage visitors, instead of applying car parking charges to maximise council income and so penalise tourists and locals alike.

Nick Chaloner

Cartmel