Town gets phone-and-park scheme

A seaside town is introducing a scheme which allows motorists to pay for parking by mobile phone.

From Monday, drivers in Bournemouth can pay over the phone by credit or debit card for spaces in 45 car parks.

RingGo customers can also ask to be sent a text message to remind them to return to their car or top up their ticket remotely when it is running out.

Parking attendants can check cars have valid "tickets" by checking their registration numbers electronically.

Those using RingGo will also be charged an additional convenience fee of 20p or 30p, depending on the location of the car park location.

Bournemouth Borough Councillor John Hayter, portfolio holder for strategic development and transport, said: "This will be good news for those who have ever stood in front of a "pay-and-display" ticket machine with the wrong change.

"The best part is that a parking session can be extended by simply making a phone call."