THE daughter of an elderly couple, wrongly charged £100 for parking in Worcester car parks, has called for a public apology.

Colin Bird, 81, and Betty Bird, 79, often come into Worcester for the day but were shocked to discover they had fallen victim of a fault which saw them charged multiple times for their parking charge. 

Around 1,500 people have so far complained about being charged duplicate payments after parking at city council car parks. 

Beverley Grundy, 57, says she is "disgusted" by the council's response.

She said: "So far, they have had £132 taken out of their account and all they have had is an email saying sorry and that they will be refunded by October 7.

"Why should my parents be out of pocket until then? There needs to be compensation. 

"I am disgusted that there is no helpline you can ring."

Mrs Grundy said her mum did not notice the charges straight away as she has been unwell with an infection in her mouth, leaving her face swollen. 

She said she was shocked at the lack of action being taken by the city council and Lloyds, the bank that her parents use. 

Mrs Grundy added: "Refunding just the money that was taken out is not enough. Most definitely not enough.

"I can't just forget to pay my council tax bill and then pay the amount back when I feel like it.

"I want something done about this. I am not prepared to let this rest. 

"I want an apology from the head of the council.

"My parents are good, honest people who don't deserve this.

"My mum normally checks her bank account every day but because she has been so poorly she missed a few days. 

"Had she not seen it on the news, she wouldn't have even known."

Mr and Mrs Bird, from Stourport, previously worked in finance so were happy to contact their bank for help, but Mrs Grundy fears other older people might not be as technically savvy and could be unaware that they are owed money. 

Amidst the cost of living crisis, Mrs Grundy said that no one should have to experience money coming out of their account without their consent.

Mrs Grundy later confirmed that, after being contacted by the Worcester News, Lloyds bank has now refunded her parents their money.

Worcester City Council was unavailable for comment but has previously said staff were working to rectify the situation and all outstanding money should be returned by October 7.