In front of a silent Town Council the Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Colin Gray read a brief statement apologising for any distress caused by his actions, which were filmed as part of an ITV programme, Parking Wars, earlier this year. He also asked that a line be drawn under the matter so that he could continue working for the good of the town.

Colin Gray said: “In April I attended a Civic Function in Hereford, On my return to my car I found a fixed penalty notice as the time on my ticket had overrun.

“I regret my response and subsequent exchange with the Parking Attendant. I had no intention of trying to make a claim from the Town Council and I made the payment from my own finances the following day.

“I am sorry if my actions caused any distress to others and I would like to put this unfortunate incident behind me. I intend to continue to use my influence for the good of those who live and work in Ross and I would like to draw a line under this matter.”

No comments were made by other Councillors and the meeting of the full Town Council on Monday, October 12th, continued.

Following the meeting Councillor Jo Jennings contacted the Ross Gazette to say she would be resuming her Council attendance ’in a spirit of conciliation’.