FOOTBALL fans claim they are being targeted by parking attendants during AFC Bournemouth matches.

Supporters of away teams in particular say that cars have been ticketed at the Kings Park Lorry Park, adjacent to the Dean Court stadium.

They say that signs at the car park are poor and the council is deliberately checking tickets during games to catch out as many people as possible.

But the council said the signs were prominent and parking was enforced along normal lines.

One Cherries supporter, who asked not to be named, said the council had been “sneaking around” during recent home games against Plymouth and Brighton.

He said: “I think what really galls people is that they go round during the match and ticket people, but poor signage and a lack of presence before and after the match smacks of an underhanded money-making scheme.”

The fan added that the parking fee was nominal – 50p an hour – and therefore the main reason for not having a ticket was not knowing that payment was required.

Internet forums of both Plymouth and Brighton fans have raised the issue.

On one Plymouth site, a fan wrote: “On arriving today directed by steward (no mention by him that it was pay and display) to rear car park, could see no signs stating pay and display. Parked car at 12.45pm. After game, had parking fine of £25 if paid within 14 days, £50 thereafter. Ticket stated between 3.05pm and 3.25pm warden present.

“On looking around loads of cars had been caught out by this.”

Mike Holmes, service director for planning and transport at Bournemouth Borough Council, said charges applied whether or not there was a game and signs were in prominent positions.

“Our enforcement officers don’t target this car park any more than others in the borough, but spot checks are carried out there and visits will include some Saturday afternoons. Visitors who feel they’ve received a penalty charge unfairly have the opportunity to challenge and if signage is raised as a concern it will be investigated.”