An amputee expressed astonishment when he received a parking fine immediately after the council marked a disabled bay around his vehicle. Graham Tufft, aged 66 and residing in Newport, had been requesting a designated disabled parking space on his street for over two years. Contractors from Newport City Council painted the bay around his car as requested, but a parking warden swiftly issued a penalty charge notice (PCN) before he could display his blue badge.

Mr. Tufft, who has a below-knee amputation, a leg splint, heart failure, and diabetes, was taken aback by the £70 fine, which could be reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. His wife, Janice, mentioned their confusion regarding badge display requirements, as the car is registered to their address. While researching online during the painting process, she discovered the need to display the badge and attempted to place it on the dashboard after the contractors finished, only to find the penalty notice.

The couple suspects the timing of the fine was not coincidental, as they rarely see traffic wardens in the area. They have initiated the appeals process for the penalty charge notice and have raised their concerns with Newport City Council. The council has been contacted for comment on the matter.