Drivers in Swale are the most likely in Kent to have their parking fines quashed if they appeal.

Figures released today by the Press Association show the borough as being the fourth best in the country at listening to appeals by motorists.

It waived the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) in 70.8% of cases, that is 3,342 approved cases out of 4,721 which were submitted.

A spokesman from Swale Borough Council said: "These figures show that we are effectively considering challenges by motorists by taking account of their views and mitigating any circumstances.

"PCNs are only one part of the parking enforcement process, and are issued by a trained civil enforcement officer based on what they have observed. This is supported by photographic evidence, but may still only be a snapshot of a situation.

"By design, once a PCN has been issued it can't be waived by the CEO as this would lead to accusations of abuse, or even threatening behaviour towards officers who are providing a vital service to the community by keeping our roads safe and traffic flowing.

"This is why it's important to have a clear appeal process where circumstances such as loading, breakdowns, medical emergencies, damages signs or worn road markings can be taken into account."

The figures also reveal that those who appeal their parking fine to Medway Council are the least likely to get the charge overturned - as only a third of complainants got the result they wanted.

Shepway District Council also took a stern stance, with just 35% being successful on appeal.

"A couple of councils have put forward their reasons and one of them said they trust their staff but another council says it's about educating drivers" - MoneySavingExpert.com Steve Nowottny

But those in Maidstone can expect some leniency after the dreaded yellow envelope with 63.7% of appeals being successful.

Steve Nowottny from MoneySavingExpert.com said: "A couple of councils have put forward their reasons and one of them said they trust their staff but another council says it's about educating drivers."

Mr Nowottny also urged people who get their appeal rejected at the first stage to take it further.

Ashford, Canterbury, Dartford, Gravesham and Sevenoaks councils all failed to respond.

Nationally Runnymede in Surrey was the worst for accepting appeals with only 9.2% being successful.

But Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council approved 95.4% of cases.