AN angry driver who successfully appealed against a fine after unwittingly driving through a bus lane is urging others to not take the charges lying down.

Dale Gould, 61, was taking his very first drive through Colchester when he made the error.

While driving along the High Street, his sat nav recommended he turn right down Queen Street.

He says he was unaware the road becomes a bus lane until it was too late and was soon slapped with a £30 fine.

Mr Gould contested the fine.

He said: “It doesn’t clearly warn you about a bus lane until you’re actually in it. I think it is ridiculous.

“It was my first time driving in Colchester and probably my last.

“I was following a sat nav, and I genuinely didn’t see the signs warning of the bus lane.

“As a result, I felt it was worthwhile appealing.”

After his initial appeal was rejected by Essex County Council, he took his case to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal.

The council then declined to contest the appeal.

Mr Gould, from Colne Engaine., said: “They said ‘given the guidelines issued by the Traffic Penalty Tribunal regarding signage in this location, the council would like to no contest this case.

“This rather implies they know the signage is inadequate, but arrogantly refuse to alter it.

“If the signs are not okay, then surely they are issuing penalties illegally and should refund all previous fines.

“This bus lane is particularly short in length and badly positioned after a bend.

“The two signs warning of it are both placed on the crown of bends and so point slightly away from oncoming traffic.”

“It seems to me this is nothing more than a revenue-raising trap that has no real benefit.

“My view is everyone who is caught in this trap should contest the ticket.”

A council spokesman said: “This bus lane is clearly marked with 5ft letters saying ‘bus lane’, a red surface and numerous road signs to warn drivers not to enter the area.

“All appeals are decided on their own merit and circumstances.

“We believe the signage is sufficient, but we are always open to improving signage and will keep this under review.

“Bus lanes are vital to help ensure buses run on time.

“Buses offer a reliable transport option to beat congestion and have the potential to take up to 40 cars off Colchester’s roads.”

The bus lane was introduced in October 13, although the council had to pay back £1 million in fines three months in after signs were inadequate. They were replaced.