a motoring ticket from 1997 in Magistrates' Court.

Caren Lightbourne said: "Oh my goodness. I thought I was here for parking tickets.'' Lightbourne, 46, pleaded guilty to using an unlicensed motor car on February 1, 1997.

"When you call to find out about these things, they say it has been thrown out. Honest to goodness -- oh my lord,'' she said. "Is that the only thing I'm here for?'' When Mr. Warner told her that she had to pay the 2001 fine price of $750, rather than the 1997 fine price of $450, Lightbourne said: "You're joking. Lord have mercy. The three parking tickets would only add up to $150! Can't I get the old price?'' The court laughed as Lightbourne, of Mount Hill Mews in Pembroke, continued her mitigation with Mr. Warner.

When Mr. Warner said she would be fined the old fine price of $450, Mrs.

Lightbourne said: "I'm glad you gave me so gracious a fine. I appreciate that.'' On her way out of court, Lightbourne told Mr. Warner the only reason she was in court was because she had an accident that morning and Police reminded her to pay the fines.