Drivers in North Finchley are “bemused” this morning after vandals spray painted parking signs.

The people of High Road woke to find all of the pay-by-phone parking signs painted over meaning it is impossible to read the instructions.

Therefore, anyone wanting to park finds themselves unable to pay as they cannot see the phone number to call or the area’s parking code.

Helen Michael, owner of Cafe Buzz, said: “I believe this is done as a protest.

“It is not the first time it has happened. It has been going on for four or five months.

“I understand the reasons that people are doing this but I don’t condone criminal damage.”

While Ms Michael is vehemently opposed to Barnet Borough Council’s parking policy she does not believe that this latest protest is helping struggling traders.

She said: “I don’t think it is doing the traders any favours.

“People don’t want to take the risk of getting a fine so, if they don’t know how to pay, they will just leave.

“I have seen a lot of people looking bemused this morning.”

The council has confirmed that people cannot be fined for parking without paying under these circumstances.

It also says that it has passed CCTV footage from High Road on to the police for investigation.