I've looked up the case you suggested, armadillo 71, and all things considered it would probably take less time to write the response than it would to cite the case reference. However it did make me smile. Many thanks for your input.

Thanks for the heads up, armadillo 71

I fell foul of Excel Parking at George Street, Wakefield in March 2010. They chased me saying I didn't purchase a ticket - I DID - and subsequently sent me a collection of letters demanding payment even though I contacted them and explained that a ticket had been purchased. After reading all the messages on this forum I ignored all their demands, kept and dated all the letters they sent me, and after six months or so they went away. However, I have just received a letter - four and a half years later - from Rossendales Collect demanding payment. I've been on the internet and researched Rossendales and they seem a legit company, unlike the other companies that Excel have used in the past. I have 7 days to pay £150 for a 60p parking ticket. Can anyone advise me on the best course of action? Thanks in advance.

Thanks to everyone for the very helpful advice given. My problems started in March and I've duly ignored all letters sent by these [problematic] since. However I feel like I might be getting to the end of it now and I'm going to really miss those letters dropping through my mailbox. I'm thinking of writing to them since they almost seem like friends now. lol. It's a bit like 21st Century bear baiting.