A COMMUNITY stalwart has hit out after dozens of drivers fell foul of the dreaded wheel clampers behind Parkstone's Ashley Road shops.

The only warning in the service area, accessed through Jubilee Road, is a "tiny sign" atop a 12ft post, but unsurprisingly motorists are failing to spot it, getting clamped and being left to fork out the £125 release fee.

Jubilee Road Residents Association campaigner Jeff Williams said: "Many people who use the land are unaware they could get clamped until it is too late. This sign is tiny and so high up it is practically in the clouds.

"Scores of drivers have been clamped in recent months and I know of at least one pensioner who was clamped as she went into a church. It is disgraceful."

Driver Mandy Willis contacted the Echo after visiting Boots on her lunch hour. She was gone for just five minutes, but it was long enough for the wheel clamp men to spring.

Mrs Willis said: "I genuinely did not see the clamping sign and was not aware of the parking restriction.

"Having seen the sign I was amazed at how small it was and indeed, at the time, it was obstructed by a large lorry.

"If they do not want people to park in this area they should put up adequate No Parking signs.

"The amount charged is outrageous and completely disproportionate to the crime. I have shopped on the Ashley Road for many years but after this incident I will not be visiting again."

The Bournemouth-based land management company, Rebbecks, who manage the site, were unavailable for comment.

Mr Williams added: "This is madness, the landowners are clamping the very people who use the shops that in turn pay the leases to the landowners."