I READ with horror that the councillors for Dorset are increasing car park charges to rip off the tourists.

The tourist income is valuable to the hard hit businesses in this county.

The high streets are closing as people seek alternative parking rather than pay the council charges.

They are even doing away with cash and that does not help the oldies amongst us.

I also wonder what costs are involved in running a car park with no attendant, no car park services, very few litter bins, drainage that never needs attention, weeds that never get cleared.

Maybe the real reason is to cover the councillors salaries and perks.

I saw an advert for a circus advertising for clowns.

Councillors beware, the elections loom.

COLIN BECK

Virginia Close, Verwood