Volunteers working on the Covid-19 vaccination programme at Steam Museum will be able to park nearby for free – despite a message from Swindon Borough Council saying they wouldn't be able to after June 21.

A message from the council said emergency parking pass guidance from central government would be withdrawn on June 21, when all restrictions are due to be lifted.

The message went on to say that means the borough council’s critical care permit would also finish.

It added: “Please do not park after this date without a valid permit or payment for your parking session, as you may be subjected to a penalty charge notice.

“Please note that Swindon Borough Council did not have a free permit prior to the pandemic and it is not our intention to provide a free permit of this nature after June 21, 2021.”

It concluded: “ We would like to take this opportunity to thank you and all critical workers across Swindon for your hard work to support the community throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Volunteers who received the email were not thrilled.

One of them, Colin Hughes, said: “During the pandemic healthcare workers and volunteers vaccinating at Steam have received free parking.

"Out of the blue this concession is to be lifted June 21 so volunteers at Steam will have to pay for the privilege of giving up their time.”

But it turns out the message should not have been sent – and free parking for volunteers will still be available near the museum.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesperson said: “We are sorry for any distress caused to our amazing volunteers who have given up their time to help fight Covid.

“They are deeply valued by the council and we took immediate action when we realised our mistake, by sending an additional email to all volunteers at Steam yesterday to advise they are still able to park for free at the site.

“They just need to submit their name and car registration number and parking officers will be alerted that these vehicles are able to park at the Bristol Street car park without displaying a permit.”