READING your story about the small parking bays in the Commercial Street car park in Darlington (Echo, May 1) reminded me of an experience last year. I parked my small car in the upper part of the town's Beaumont Street car park and noticed it just fitted between the lines.

Upon my return, I found each neighbouring bay occupied by a large 4x4 vehicle. I spent the next 20 minutes trying to squeeze back into my car as I could only get the door open by six inches.

As more people seem to drive 4x4s, I think we need larger bays, not smaller.

R Hubery, Darlington.