Seeking Advice: Debt Collector for Parking Fine - Genuine Error & Difficult Time (UK)

PeteDaMeat · 10 June at 8:36PM

Hi all,

I'm hoping to get some opinions on a debt collector letter I've received from a debt collection company for £170, concerning an alleged unpaid parking fine from a private parking operator on 20th July 2020. My current car was involved.

Here are the key points of my situation:

Payment Made: I paid for parking via RingGo and my stay was fully covered.
Honest Mistake: I've realised my payment was mistakenly linked to an old car (which I had sold in 2017). This was a genuine oversight because I hadn't updated my RingGo app. The parking operator suffered no financial loss as I paid for my entire stay.
No Recollection of PCN: Honestly, I can't remember whether I received the original Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) or any appeal outcome. My mind was incredibly preoccupied during 2020 because my father was diagnosed with MND in January and sadly passed away in September. This significant personal distress likely explains why I have no recollection of any such correspondence, which prevented me from addressing this issue sooner.
My Role: While the letters are addressed to my wife (the registered keeper), I was the driver and owner of the vehicle at the time.
Actions Taken: I've sent detailed communications (via their app and email) to both the debt collection company and the parking operator, explaining everything and attaching all supporting documentation (payment proof, vehicle ownership details for both cars, and my father's death certificate).

I believe I have a reasonable defence. What are your thoughts on my position, especially if this were to proceed to a County Court Judgment (CCJ)? Should I just pay the £170? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.