Drivers stopping on double yellow lines to pick up Christmas parcels from Ashford’s delivery office are endangering lives, according to Ashford Council.

Cars have been seen pulling up outside the Royal Mail Delivery Office in Tannery Lane throughout the day during the pre-festive period despite parking restrictions and large signs warning people not to stop there.

The council’s strong statement comes after a member of the public, who did not wish to be named as she is currently contesting a penalty charge notice, complained to the Express that plastic cones placed outside the delivery office were stopping her parking there.

The driver, who lives in Kennington, said: “Is it just me or is Ashford doing its best to ruin Christmas spirit? Just what objection is there in stopping for a few minutes to pick up a parcel, especially at this time of year?

“It’s hardly a busy thoroughfare or a major obstruction and I have witnessed the wardens waiting for those who have ‘popped in’ as if they really have nothing better to do.”

But ABC says the cones were actually put out by Kent County Council while contractors worked on the road but said parking in Tannery Lane was a major problem, particularly at Christmas.

The council says there are clear 'no parking' notices which many drivers ignore thereby creating road safety issues at peak times like Christmas.