A NEW era in paying for parking by using a mobile phone came into effect in Romsey this week.

Drivers in both Romsey and Andover now have the option of paying by using a credit or debit card, before they step out of their vehicles.

Test Valley Borough Council, which runs parking in the two towns, has teamed up with RingGo to provide the service for a small charge of 20p for each transaction.

A council spokesman explained that users of the new system can either register online or on the day of parking and will be able to call from the safety of their vehicle.

There is no ticket required as all parking attendants will be issued with handheld devices which will allow them to check proof of payment.

Drivers using this system can also receive text alerts when their parking time is going to expire and will also then have the option to top-up their parking time via their mobile if they are running late.

Borough planning and transport portfolio holder Councillor Martin Hatley said: "This is a brilliant initiative and one that I am sure many people will find useful. It offers our customers more flexibility and choice when it comes to paying for car parking.

"This system is a perfect example of the Council's commitment to finding new and innovative ways to improve services for our residents."

The pay-by-phone system, which can particularly helpful to people arriving with insufficient change, is an alternative method and drivers will still be able to use the coin operated ticket machine All surface car parks in Andover and Romsey will use this system apart from Andover Leisure Centre car park and the multi-storey in Andover Further information can be obtained from RingGo please at www.ringgo.co.uk