We went with another couple to Portsmouth Guildhall on Thursday night for a Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert which we do every season, about 10 shows over the winter. Parked as usual in our normal place and enjoyed the Mozart and Bruckner. Back at the car we had a ticket. I phoned the council next morning and was told there has never been parking in that street after 6pm on police orders, because it's a busy through fare for effin student.

I argued why we got a ticket as we had parked here for so long, with my Blue Badge clearly displayed and was told I must have been very very lucky over the previous times and the badge had no meaning in that place. They also added I would not get away with a challenge to the ticket. I tried to challenge it on line and the ticket or car reg doesn't appear on their system but they said that's because the machine maybe hasn't been downloaded yet. Tried again this morning and the same. They said try phoning on Monday. I might have some luck ref the machine thing or maybe it's the wrong info they have but doubt it.

Sorry to hear about the ticket. Is there any signage to say absolutely no parking after 6pm? If not, google getting off parking tickets as plenty of advice on the web. Also see what blue badge terms say. Isn't the point of bb that you can park unless absolutely forbidden in which case you would expect it to be displayed?

Thanks Tiger, family and friends say the signs were OK but I think they read them wrong.

It is now on their system, I phoned the council and have sent off my challenge letter.