RESIDENTS are being called to a crunch meeting in a bid to halt parking charges in an East Riding market town.

The revolt against the controversial proposed charges in Pocklington is being stepped up with a public meeting tomorrow night.

Campaigners are urging objectors from other East Riding towns and villages that could be hit by the charges to attend.

It is feared plans for charges at three long-stay car parks in Pocklington would blight trade and derail a tourism initiative for the area.

East Riding Council announced a public consultation into proposed charging at 20 car parks in the area following a huge public outcry to the plans.

Tomorrow's meeting follows the launch of the Mail's Park The Charges campaign, which has been backed by more than 25,000 people across the region.

The aim is to fight the introduction of the fees in car parks in Cottingham, Anlaby, Goole, Mappleton, Stamford Bridge, Hessle, Hedon, Willerby and Pocklington.

Pocklington mayor Jeff Shepherd said: "There is no doubt the charges will have a damaging effect on trade in the town. Shoppers are used to having free parking.

"If it is no longer available they will drive to places such as out-of-town shopping centres where it is.

"Pocklington is a market town and relies on people from the surrounding villages coming to shop and use its public services.

"Let's be clear on this – parking charges could be the death knell for our busy market town."

The meeting will be held at Pocklington Arts Centre in Market Place at 7pm.