MORE than 1,000 people flocked to a chilly Richmond Park on Saturday to say no to parking charges in Richmond and Bushy parks.
It follows culture minister Margaret Hodge's announcement that Royal Parks, who manage the parks, were to be given the go-ahead to charge drivers up to £2 per visit.
The decision, in January, followed a year of protests from local residents and park users, which saw thousands put their name to a petition against the move.
The rally, organised by the area's Conservative parliamentary hopefuls Zac Goldsmith, united political parties, who are unanimous in their opposition.
Campaign group the Keep Bushy Park Free Alliance were also out in force, marching with yellow placards and banners.
The rally met at Pembroke Lodge at 10.30am and saw politicians including Mr Goldsmith and Liberal Democrat MPs Susan Kramer and Vince Cable, address the crowd.
Mr Goldsmith said: "The fact that so many people have turned up proves what a colossal misjudgement the Royal Parks and the government have made in attempting to impose parking charges in the park. The minister has said that we can afford the charges. Some of us can. But what about pensioners? Or mothers and children, or regular dog walkers?
"And what about the people living around the park whose roads will be jammed with parked cars? These are the people will be punished. Richmond Park isn't just part of our landscape, it's part of our lives."
Ms Hodge has claimed introducing the charges will lead to a reduction in the number of people driving to the park and that charges are fair because they are in line with other royal parks in London. She also claims most people visiting the parks are well off and can afford the charges.
Mrs Kramer and Dr Cable are hoping to use parliamentary procedures to force a vote on the issue.
