Officers said a "softly-softly" approach had not worked and now they, together with community support officers, would be handing out more £30 parking tickets.

Members of the town's Safer Neighbourhood Team have been inundated with complaints from the public and local councillors about illegal parking in King Street, St Andrews Street and the High Street, caused by drivers stopping to use the shops or cash machines. They have now pledged to take a stronger line with offenders.

Acting Sergeant Peter Maxfield said: "In an ideal world, it would be nice not to issue any parking tickets but a minority of drivers are flouting parking regulations, which is having an adverse effect on traffic flow and the safety of pedestrians.

"Although local officers are currently issuing parking tickets on a regular basis and moving vehicles on that are illegally parked, it seems to have had little impact in addressing the problem.

"It would seem that the only solution left is a period of elevated enforcement. There is no excuse for illegal parking."

Mildenhall parish councillor George Hayes said: "Parking in the town is free and there really is no excuse for flouting the regulations.

"This action is being taken due to the high level of complaints and I fully support the police in tackling this persistent problem. It is a concern for many residents, affecting the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike."

What do you think? Have your say below.