A DISABLED man is refusing to pay a parking ticket he was issued in Leigh town centre.

Colin Warren has arthritis in his back and legs but because all the disabled bays were full on Gas Street when he visited Spinning Gate Shopping Centre, he parked in a normal bay.

Mr Warren returned after less than the two hours blue badge holders are allowed to park for free to find he had been issued with a parking ticket.

The 73-year-old, from Warrington, said: “It is a disgrace that councils charge for parking. People are squeezed enough with food costing so much and then they charge you to park.

“I parked near to the mobility scooter rental place and as there were no disabled spaces I just parked in a normal one and assumed as my blue badge was displayed I wouldn’t have to pay.

“They are just after more money to make up the cuts they have had to deal with. I am determined not to pay and I don’t see any point in going through the appeal process either.”

The Wigan Council website states that blue badge holders can park for free in the on-street pay and display bays.

But Kevin Hargreaves, car parking manager at Wigan Council, said: “In March 2013, Wigan Council introduced disabled parking charges on all chargeable car parks in the borough.

“To ensure that drivers are aware of the changes, which includes two hours’ free parking for disabled users, signs have been installed.

“The gentleman has been in touch with Wigan Council regarding the issue of the penalty charge notice and we have explained the appeals procedure.”