A POOLE parking warden at the centre of an internal investigation has quit his job.

The man has left the Borough of Poole after being suspended, despite being cleared of any wrongdoing.

Allegations surfaced in a letter sent to the council, claiming the warden was seen to park at a council pay and display car park in the town centre and walk off without paying.

On the car's dashboard was said to be an old parking ticket and blue shoulder badges worn by the town's wardens.

The resident claimed to have watched as another warden came along, saw the car and made a call on his mobile phone.

However as he did so the watcher claimed to have seen the driver return to his vehicle and drive away.

The employee was suspended for several weeks while an investigation into this took place.

In a statement Colin Hague, head of personnel and training services, said: "This course of action took place in accordance with normal personnel procedures and employment legislation.

"It allowed for the investigation to take place and for the full facts to be established.

"The investigation is now complete and appropriate action has been taken in accordance with the council's disciplinary procedure.

"The allegations were found not to be proven. The employee returned to work but has since resigned.

"It is not our policy to comment further on individual staffing matters in such circumstances. Our procedures are applied fairly and equitably to all employees."

First published: August 23