DISABLED people are being “banished” from Colchester because of a High Street car ban, according to blue badge couple.

Mary, 73, and Brian Torode, 75, decided to do all they can to make the ban a success by leaving their car at home.

But after a trip to Colchester town centre by bus, they have vowed not to go back.

“We are being banished from our town,” said Mrs Torode, of Magnolia Drive, in Greenstead, Colchester.

“It is frustrating as we hoped to do our bit but it seems no-one else is.”

On Thursday, the couple went into Colchester by bus, got off at Wilkinsons, in St John’s Street, but by the time they reached the High Street, both were gasping for breath.

“It’s no way for us to go shopping," added Mrs Torode.

To make matters worse, Mrs Torode added: “In the time we were in the High Street between 2.30pm and 4pm, we saw at least 14 cars come down the street and numerous cars parked as you would have expected before the ban.

“And here we are trying to abide by it.

“Colchester is no longer an option for us. When we go out now, we will be going to Ipswich by car - there is nothing here for us.”

Before the ban, Mr and Mrs Torode would regularly park in High Street but now they say the nearest they can part is in Priory Street.

“To expect us to park there is unrealistic,” Mrs Torode said.

“It is too far away from the centre. If we are feeling this way, there must be so many disabled people thinking just the same.”

Anne Turrell, leader of Colchester Council said: “There are people who are not taking notice of the ban, but enforcement is down to Essex Police and I cannot make the police do something, sadly.”

She added: “Police should be stopping people, though I appreciate they cannot be there all the time.

“Our parking officers should be on the ground there and if they are not, I will ensure they are.”

Mrs Turrell also urged residents to send their High Street queries to ColchesterTC@essexhighways.org.