An MP says he is pleased a DIY chain agreed to stop "persecuting shoppers" after he contact the firm about parking fines.

Ilford North MP Wes Streeting wrote to the store manager at Newbury Park B&Q on August 16 with his concerns about reports from shoppers who used their car park.

Residents had told the MP they had been fined £100 after shopping at the branch in Horns Road Retail Park and then going on to visit other shops.

In his letter, Mr Streeting argued customers should be able to visit other shops, and also detailed the potential benefits, including reducing pollution, congestion and encouraging them to visit a range of local shops.

Read more: MP Wes Streeting writes to B&Q over parking fines

B&Q have replied to the MP, saying they have asked their car park managers JLL to “stop issuing parking charges to drivers who were seen to be parking and then leaving the site. We understand from JLL that they have made this change.”

Their letter added: "B&Q’s view is that our customers are welcome to park for up to three hours, and within this time, to visit nearby shops and businesses.”

Mr Streeting said: “I am pleased that B&Q have now changed their car parking policy to stop persecuting shoppers and to help local businesses in Newbury Park.

“At a time of real pressure for the retail industry, where we are seeing many of our local shops closing their shutters for good, I am glad that B&Q are making this change to allow customers to visit other shops.

“Not only will this help local businesses in Newbury Park, but it will also reduce emissions and congestion by reducing the need to drive a short distance to the car park across the road.”