HOW sad it is that so many people are so grudging of a small benefit someone else may be receiving, such as is L A O’Bee regarding disabled free parking (Letters, November 18).

I worked continuously from 13 till 66 – being out of work once for two hours only – served as many others did during the war and have a considerable number of major problems that qualify me for a disabled parking badge. It is the only thing I’ve ever received free from the state other than the TV licence.

I’ve been very grateful for my free parking, looking at it not only as recognition of my disability, but as thanks from the state for being a good citizen, bearing in mind most disabled are in the senior citizen bracket. The free parking costs the local authority proportionally very little and in no way do I support misuse of the privilege.

As for means testing, surely that would be better directed at all the fiddlers claiming benefits, and allowances, to which they are not entitled, a problem by comparison that makes free disabled parking insignificant. Having just had my heating notification telling me it is reduced by £100 and the VAT increase which will cost me around £375 extra in a year and savings earning next to nothing.

I appreciate my parking privilege.

D SMITH, Bitterne, Southampton.