SIR — As an ex-patriate from Williton, taken to Australia by my Devonite husband some 25 years ago, it is disappointing to read of the shocking parking problems in what used to be nice friendly Somerset.

Indeed, we experienced the despotic parking rules throughout the UK some two years ago during a motoring holiday visiting friends and relations. From this aspect, we were pleased to come back to Australia.

Here in the North Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, 20 kilometres from the city but well within the sprawling metropolis, all parking is free and there is heaps of it. We are surrounded by several large shopping complexes with multi-storeyed parking, all free.

Yes, when we see what is happening over there, we do ask ourselves how long this luxury can last, as we were driven to despair by "Pay and display" and can appreciate the views of your readers when they say that the council's grab for extra revenue will "drive" shoppers to search for free parking areas.

Local authorities sold the idea of "parking meters" to the public on the basis of regulating the available parking. It is now just another revenue generator.

Heather Tregale (nee Bryant),

73 Nepean Street,

Watsonia, 3087,

Australia.