A STRETFORD dad has slammed Trafford Council after he was given a parking ticket - despite having a valid permit on display.

After calling the council to complain, Brian Kennedy, 36, was told he had been issued with the £35 ticket because the inspector thought the visitor’s permit had been filled out in pencil.

Brian took the permit - which had been filled out in pen - to Sale Waterside expecting an apology, but was told that he would need to appeal, after which he would either have to pay the ticket or would receive a letter telling him how to fill in the permit.

The procurement manager, from Derbyshire Lane, said: “The situation is ridiculous, I think I should get a letter of apology.”

Brian was given the ticket on Saturday March 19, after he took his 10-year-old daughter to see his parents at their Ravenswood Road home in Gorse Hill.

The street is affected by match day parking restrictions and because Manchester United were playing Bolton Wanderers at Old Trafford, Brian’s mum filled out a visitor’s parking permit and put it in his car.

“My parents have lived there for 11 years and have never had anything like it, they think it’s disgusting,” he said.

Brian is also critical of the fact the family only get three free visitor permits and have to pay £3 for each additional one required.

After Messenger contacted the council, a letter was posted to Brian with an apology and cancellation of the ticket - as Messenger went to press he had not yet received it.

Peter Molyneux, Trafford Council’s corporate director of environment, transport and operations, said: “Officers check visitor cards to avoid abuse of the system, which would cause difficulties for people living and visiting the area.

“Once a penalty notice has been issued drivers have the right to appeal the decision.

“In this particular case, it was clear the card had been correctly completed in faint pen. The council therefore apologised to the driver and immediately cancelled the fixed penalty notice.”