Bradford's pioneering hi-tech traffic wardens have nabbed more than 800 motorists since they started their patrols in Bradford city centre.

They were among the first in Britain to take to the streets armed with computers instead of ticket books after Bradford Council slapped on charges in 13 city centre streets which were previously free to park.

The wardens Dave Flynn and Matt Brown are said to have suffered some "verbal abuse" when the scheme began in March, but they have caught 821 motorists who did not pay up, and have brought in £3,200 in fines for the authority.

The Council's decision to charge motorists in the main shopping areas was made despite a storm of controversy when traders said their customers would be driven out to out-of-town centres like the White Rose, where motorists were welcome and parked for free.

A Telegraph & Argus survey carried out with the Chamber of Trade this year showed 174 people did not want to pay parking charges - with only eight in favour.

But the Council said it would help the traders because people were circling the streets looking for spaces while motorists left their cars for long periods. Now drivers are being charged 30p for half an hour and 60p an hour.

The Council is trying to recruit a new warden to replace Mr Brown, who is leaving the authority for another job.

But a Council spokesman said his decision had nothing to do with any difficulties in the job.

The Council says since the innovative solar panel machines were introduced in May, it has received about £30,000 from the parking fees. But this is offset by the £4.95 an hour wages for the wardens, as well as running costs.

An advert has been placed by the Council for Mr Brown's replacement for applicants who are experienced in dealing with "difficult, confrontational situations".

But chairman of Bradford Retail Action Group Jeff Frankel said: "I think it probably should include being nine feet tall and weighing 28 stones as well.

"But I would query whether this scheme is actually breaking even when you think of the costs of operating it."

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