Christmas surprise from parking inspectors

Nearly 200 Canberra drivers have received a Christmas surprise after being sprung overstaying their welcome in paid parking areas.

Instead of being slapped with $114 fines on Christmas Eve, their yellow infringement envelopes were stuffed with a warning and encouragement to park fairly next year.

"By overstaying your time, not only are you inconveniencing other motorists who may be looking for a parking spot, it also impacts businesses by reducing access for potential customers who may have sought to visit," said Craig Simmons from Access Canberra.