CRICKETERS have been hit for six by evening parking charges, it was revealed today - as council officers prepared to unveil possible changes to the fees.

A total of 50 clubs playing in a York cricket league were due to gather in the city centre for a three-hour AGM.

One hundred sportsmen from across the region were expected to meet at York St John College.

But officials from the Hunters York and District Senior Cricket League decided to switch venues to New Earswick - because of new evening charges.

Secretary Albert Pattison said: "We've held the meeting at the college for three years. The facilities are excellent, but there is no on-site parking."

He said to charge volunteers to park at night seemed "absolutely ludicrous".

Liberal Democrat transport executive member Coun Ann Reid was unavailable for comment when we went to press.

News of the change of venue came as council officials prepared to outline potential changes to new charges and restrictions, after a storm of protest.

Labour members raised eyebrows about the timing of a press conference to reveal the review contents.

Opposition transport spokeswoman Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing said 2pm was a strange time to make the announcement - too late to make today's Evening Press.

But a council spokeswoman said 2pm was the most practical time in terms of booking rooms, and officer time.

Updated: 09:19 Friday, September 17, 2004