Haringey wrongly told parking campaigner he couldn’t represent drivers at hearings

A parking campaigner who advises motorists appealing against fines was wrongly informed by the London Borough of Haringey that he could not attend tribunals.

Derek Dishman, who uses the alias Mr Mustard, said that over a one-month period three different officers at Haringey informed him, on four separate occasions, that he could not attend London Tribunals hearings.

The council later admitted it had made a mistake, confirming that representatives can attend hearings provided there is written permission from the appellant.

Dishman said it was only when he contacted a senior correspondence officer at Haringey that the council acknowledged its mistake.

“Having my authority undermined by the council could have bullied my clients into paying up and has caused me extra work,” said Dishman.

He pointed out that he does not charge for his services though appellants can make a voluntary charity donation to the North London Hospice. “But this is only if I have helped the motorist, and only happens at the end of the process.”

The council issued the following statement: “Anyone may appoint someone to represent them at as part of the parking appeal process, as long as written authority is provided.

“We are reviewing the circumstances of this case, and are happy to speak to Mr Dishman about any concerns.”

Parking Review asked Haringey council if it would be taking action to ensure the error did not recur and whether the officers that provided the incorrect information would receive any training. A council spokesperson said: “We have nothing further to add to this statement at this stage.”