RULES is rules. It's the motto of the jobsworth. But a little flexibility goes a long way.

As landlord of the York Arms, next to the Minster, Mark Elwers has few parking options. So when he feared his wife was about to go into premature labour, he left his car close by on yellow lines, ready for a hospital dash.

He was hit with a £30 fine. But even though his wife did give birth early, the council refused to rescind the fine.

Mr Elwers has responded by paying in penny pieces. The council will have time to reconsider its stubborn approach while counting them.

Updated: 10:21 Friday, June 11, 2004