CHAOTIC scenes like this have led to police issuing more than £10,000 worth of fines to inconsiderate motorists parking illegally in Bridgwater town centre.

The Mercury witnesses vehicles parked on the double yellow lines opposite the Cornhill on a daily basis, and took this photograph to demonstrate the severity of the problem.

On occasions up to six vehicles can be seen lining the road, blocking off access to emergency vehicles needing to reach Fore Street.

Police this week revealed they have been clamping down on the problem, dishing out 168 fixed penalties of up to £60 each in the last few months.

PC Ria Reece, of the Bridgwater Safer, Stronger Neighbourhood Team, said: “While the town centre attracts a high volume of visitors to its high street, the majority of parking offences take place, on a daily basis, by the Bridgwater community, leaving local residents feeling frustrated and despondent at the level of inconvenience caused by inconsiderate drivers.

“The police are advising motorists to adhere to parking regulations and be mindful of the impact that inappropriate and/or illegal parking can cause to both the driver and residents alike.”

Along with the threat of a fine, motorists are also warned to expect to be further out of pocket if their vehicle is towed away.

A spokesman for South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “Our frontline clinicians face challenging situations every day and we would urge members of the public to park sensibly to assist our crews in responding quickly and safely to save lives, reduce anxiety, pain and suffering.”

ARE you fed up with problem parking? Have your say here.