Colchester couple ‘can’t believe their luck’ after finding free parking space... three miles from city centre

A Colchester couple has described their “once-in-a-lifetime” experience after finding a free parking space during a trip into town – although it was three miles from where they actually needed to be.

Mr and Mrs Parker, both 37, said they were “ecstatic” to avoid the usual battle with pay-and-display machines and overzealous parking wardens.

“We spotted it on a side street just as we were losing hope,” said Mr Parker. “I had to triple-check there wasn’t a permit sign or a sneaky double yellow line. It felt like we’d won the lottery.”

The couple parked their trusty Ford Fiesta on the edge of a housing estate and began the long walk into Colchester’s thriving city centre.

“It was invigorating,” said Mrs Parker. “Sure, it added 45 minutes to our journey, and we had to cross a field at one point, but you can’t put a price on free parking!”

Their discovery has sparked envy among local residents. One passer-by, who wished to remain anonymous, described the space as “the stuff of legend”. “I’ve lived in Colchester for 20 years and never seen anything like it,” they admitted.

However, not everyone was impressed. “They blocked my driveway,” claimed Mrs Dorothy Cone, 73, a resident of the road in question. “They’re lucky I didn’t call the council.”

Despite the small inconvenience of being three miles from the High Street, Mr and Mrs Parker say they have no regrets.

“We saved at least £18 in parking fees, which we promptly spent on lunch,” Mr Parker added proudly. “A meal deal just tastes better when it’s funded by a parking victory.”

The couple’s story has already inspired others to search for free parking. “It’s a lifestyle,” said Mr Parker. “You’ve just got to be patient, willing to walk, and maybe pack a compass.”

Sources suggest the Parkers are considering releasing a guidebook to Colchester’s hidden parking spaces. Early drafts include chapters titled ‘If You’re Willing to Walk, You’re Winning’ and ‘How to Spot an Unrestricted Space at 200 Yards’.

For now, the couple is basking in their triumph. “We’ll be back next weekend,” Mrs Parker said, “assuming no one else has claimed our golden spot.”