TRAFFIC wardens spoilt the Queen's birthday celebrations in Braintree after dealing out several parking tickets to partygoers near Braintree town centre.

Around 15 vehicles were left on the verge on St Peter's Road, Braintree, whilst the owners attended the Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens to watch the Bocking Concert Band help celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's 90th on Sunday May 15.

However when residents returned to their cars at around 4pm, they were shocked to find they had been given parking tickets.

A Braintree resident who received a ticket but did not want to be named said: "Where we were parked was not obstructive or dangerous, we would not have done it if it was because we would not want to risk getting a ticket.

"I think they had been deliberately planning to come out.

"They were by the cars when we saw them, and then they drove off.

"It is really unnecessary when there are people coming along to have fun.

"They are just cashing in because they know that this event is on."

The verge is on double yellow lines and technically a no parking area, but with all Braintree District Council's nearby car parks full, the resident, who was with her mother and son, copied the group of cars that obviously thought restrictions had been lifted.

A North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) spokesperson said: "The Partnership would always encourage motorists to park safely, legally and considerately even if this means parking further afield.

"The enforcement that took place on Sunday was carried out as part of a usual town centre patrol.

"Motorists who received Penalty Charge Notices can appeal these, as detailed on the Notice and provide more information about the circumstances and their cases will be reviewed."

The resident said: "The event was really nice, the weather was good, they had a lot of people attend and it was great for all ages.

"It was just a very disappointing end to the day - it ruined a lovely event supporting your local community."