Army Veteran Slapped with £120 Fine After Stopping for Medical Emergency in Supermarket Car Park
A former army reservist has been hit with a £120 parking charge after he was forced to pull over during an anxiety attack in an Aldi car park. Charlie Wheeldon, 44, from Portsmouth, was driving along Starling Road in New Milton when he began experiencing the onset of a severe anxiety episode.
Medical Emergency Leads to Unexpected Penalty
Recognising the symptoms—including shakes, pins and needles, and a loss of control—Charlie made the immediate decision to seek safety by pulling into the nearest available space, which happened to be an Aldi car park operated by Parkingeye. He remained parked for under 45 minutes until he felt sufficiently recovered to continue his journey.
"On two separate occasions, I have been hospitalised after an anxiety attack," Charlie explained. "When it happens, you have to pull over where you can at the first opportunity you get. It isn't common enough for me not to drive, but when it does occur, I must pull over to safety."
Parking Company Refuses to Withdraw Fine Despite Explanation
Days later, Charlie received an email notification of a £120 parking charge, with an offer to reduce it to £70 if paid within 48 hours. He promptly contacted Parkingeye to explain the medical circumstances behind his stop, fully expecting the fine to be waived.
"At first, I didn't panic, as I had an excuse," Charlie said. "I wasn't taking the p*ss—I wasn't even there for that long. As soon as I received the email, I responded straight away and explained the situation. With it being a medical reason, I thought they would say on this occasion they would drop the fine."
However, the company rejected his appeal, leaving him with the choice to either pay the penalty or escalate the matter further.
Ombudsman Supports Veteran's Position
In response, Charlie sought assistance from an independent ombudsman, who reviewed the case and reportedly agreed that his actions were justified under the circumstances. According to Charlie, the ombudsman understood why he had parked there and indicated that he should not be required to pay the fine.
Despite this external support, Parkingeye has continued to insist on payment, a stance that has left Charlie feeling exploited and outraged.
Veteran Condemns "Exploitation" of Vulnerable Individuals
"They are exploiting sick, vulnerable people and making money out of it," Charlie asserted. "I am disgusted by what has happened, disgusted by the fact that these people can exploit disabled and long-term ill people and use loopholes in the system. I am reasonably able-bodied, so I have to stand up and make a fuss."
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the rigidity of private parking enforcement, particularly in cases involving genuine medical emergencies. Parkingeye did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.
Charlie's experience underscores the challenges faced by individuals with hidden disabilities when navigating private car park regulations, raising questions about the need for greater flexibility and compassion in such enforcement practices.
