MOTORISTS in North Yorkshire had better keep an eye on their parking tickets - as both fines and prosecutions are on the up.

More than 2,200 parking spaces, including many at Easingwold, Thirsk and Northallerton, were to see a rise in fines this week.

The payment levels in Hambleton District Council area increased by £10 to £40, with an extra £20 charge for late payment.

Anyone falling foul of the new ruling will face court action, rates of which are also rocketing.

A recent crackdown on car parking abuse has seen 38 offenders in court in the last six months.

They had all failed to pay parking fines after overstaying their welcome in district council disc parking spaces.

David McGloin, head of technical services, said: "Despite the wealth of spaces - and the fact that it is free - some people still overstay their welcome and spoil the availability of spaces for other users.

"Ultimately we will take court action to stop these offenders, which is costly for them."

Updated: 08:43 Tuesday, April 01, 2003