A VICAR has been fined five times for repeatedly driving across a now-closed bridge while visiting his terminally ill aunt in hospital.

Canon Ian Draffan said he had been shocked and upset to receive the penalty charge notices from City of York Council, which could cost him a total of £300, or £150 if he paid within 28 days.

They relate to his crossing Lendal Bridge, which is currently closed to cars from 10.30am to 5pm daily as a six month trial to cut pollution and congestion and create a more attractive city centre.

“I had no idea I was not allowed to cross the bridge, or I would not have done so,” said Canon Draffan.

“I had driven in to York and was trying to get to the hospital to visit my aunt, who was terminally ill and died earlier this month.

“My sat nav directed me on to the bridge; the signposts were very confusing and I was very upset at the time because of my aunt’s condition.”

Canon Draffan, from Sheffield, has now lodged an appeal against the fines.

The city’s director of environmental services, Darren Richardson said: “We are sorry to hear about the circumstances surrounding Mr Draffan’s visits. Should he wish to appeal the penalty charge notice then this will of course go through the usual process.”