Bikers beaten

Westminster council today won a landmark legal battle over charging motorcyclists to park in the street. The High Court dismissed a parking campaigner's attempt to prevent officials levying a £1-a-day fee. A judge rejected claims by Warren Djanogly, of No To Motorbike Parking Fees, that the authority introduced it simply to raise revenue.

Over the past year the campaign group has held weekly demonstrations in Westminster, with "go-slow" rides in and around Trafalgar Square in the morning and evening rush hours to "paralyse" central London and turn the spotlight on their campaign.

Motorcyclists are charged to use any dedicated on-street bay. The council says it will hold the charge at £1 a day for three years. Riders can park free in its car parks.