I despair of Southend Council, our councillors, this country and our politicians.

My wife will shortly be 76 and has received today, for the first time in 50 years, a £70 parking fine, reduced to £35 if paid promptly.

My daughter, who was at work, thought it necessary that Charlotte, her 9 year old daughter should see a doctor urgently due to a swelling around her neck.

As it was not possible to get an urgent appointment with her own doctor, my wife took Charlotte to St Luke’s drop in medical centre in Pentile Avenue.

She had collected Charlotte from school and wanted to get into the surgery and take her back to school as quickly as possible.

Yes, my wife should have been more careful and read the signs closely.

The greed and selfishness encouraged by politicians of all parties who have created today’s economy over many years, means most mothers need to work.

That is also why local councils try to “balance the books” by imposing such fines and parking fees.

My wife’s experience also highlights the need for today’s parents to rely on grandparents to help out when such emergencies arise.

I wonder how our present day councillors and politicians will be able to cope when they are in their seventies with such emergencies?

Derek Matthews
Weare Gifford
Shoebury