I went to Hove Town Hall to renew my parking permit.

The clerk behind the desk asked why I needed one and I explained I was not prepared to pay the 800 per cent increase in parking charges.

I was then told in no uncertain terms to leave my car at home and go by bus to work.

I explained I work as a nurse and there are no buses in the middle of the night.

Besides, while I would love to leave my car parked and use the bus, the council's policy means I am forced to move my car whether I like it or not.

Perhaps next time she or a member of her family is in need of emergency treatment at her local hospital and cannot park near the emergency doors because they don't have a permit, they should remember this - I'm a nurse and even I don't need a permit.

-Shirly Bryant, Hove