A Canterbury estate agency has found itself accidentally staging the city’s latest parking drama after one of its bright pink branded Minis was spotted parked on double yellow lines.

The Charles Bainbridge Estate Agents car was photographed on Castle Street over the weekend, quickly triggering a lively social media debate. Some users accused the driver of blocking access – including for blue badge holders – while others pointed out the firm holds a Canterbury City Council permit that allows parking on double yellow lines.

Kent Online noted that the online discussion intensified after estate agency director Andy Wicking shared a modified version of the image featuring a mock advert referencing the incident.

The post was viewed by thousands of users and clocked up more than 500 Facebook reactions – with many applauding the humour and others making it clear they were less amused.

Wicking said the agency will donate £500 to the Canterbury Umbrella Centre, a well-known local mental health charity – turning a parking row into a charitable boost.

He stated: “What started as a wave of criticism was turned around with a bit of humour, perspective and calm – and the response to that shift was overwhelming.

“Because behind every comment, every reaction, every keyboard, there’s a person – and mental health matters far more than winning an argument online.

“Thanks to everyone who chose humour, balance and common sense over anger. Let’s keep doing more of that.”