DRIVERS are being warned that if they cut through a store's car park in Poole, they risk being slapped with a fine.

The Tesco store in Branksome is threatening to charge motorists who use their car park as a short cut between Lindsay Road and Poole Road.

But angry motorist Stewart Wood pledges to continue cutting eight minutes off his daily commute, despite receiving a written warning.

"Of course I will carry on driving through the car park - I'm not doing anything wrong," the trainee accountant said.

"Because there are so many left-hand turns where I live, it saves time for me to drive through the car park, and I've been doing it for months now."

Mr Wood was shocked and annoyed to receive a warning issued by Highview Parking on behalf of Tesco, threatening him with a fine.

"Trying to fine me for this was a complete waste of time and really got my back up," he said.

A Tesco spokesperson said: "All Tesco car parks are for customers only and should not be used as a cut-through.

"This presents health and safety issues and Mr Wood should have received a letter warning of the risks he could pose to other drivers and shoppers."

Mr Wood contested the charge - although he was not told the amount he would have to pay - and is relieved that he will not have to pay this time.

"I'm happy not to have to pay, but they are implying that there will be a next time - and then I would have to pay."