BOLTON Council has stood by its decision to fine a man who parked in a loading bay and claimed he couldn’t see the markings.

Phil Tonge had complained about being charged £70 after he parked in Marsden Street in Westhoughton while taking his 90-year-old father Eric out for a pre-Christmas treat.

The Farnworth resident, who had his elderly father’s blue badge, said he didn’t notice the loading bay sign or the markings, as they had partially faded from the road.

But a council spokesman said the authority stood by its decision to give Mr Tonge a parking ticket, as it is illegal to park in loading bays.

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A council spokesman said: “We understand that Mr Tonge is unhappy with the fine. However, there is a clearly marked sign which states it’s loading only, next to the bay.

“Mr Tonge can appeal the fine and challenge it via an independent parking tribunal.”

Mr Tonge, aged 51, had accused the council of showing no consideration to his arguments.

He said: “I just think it’s so unfair. They haven’t listened. They have looked at it without any compassion.”