TRADER has become one of the first victims of Worcester City Council's crackdown on illegal parking in disabled parking spaces.

Paul Bailey, of Bridge Street, Worcester, was fined £100 and ordered to pay £60 costs and compensation of £40 for parking in a disabled-only space in Newport Street last October.

Bailey initially denied the charge, claiming the signs were inadequate to indicate the space was reserved for disabled drivers only.

But he later changed his plea to guilty. A photograph used in evidence showed a large sign next to the space, clearly stating the space was for disabled use only.

Worcester magistrates fined Bailey on Friday.

Paul Kyte, parking manager for Worcester, said all the city's car park attendants were strictly governed by the conditions relating to the use of car parks.

"Excess charge notices are liable to be issued for infringement of regulations, with the city council taking a dim view of parkers who abuse designated disabled spaces," he said.

"If an offence has been committed, drivers should be warned that we will pursue it."