TIME is running out for drivers to reclaim their fines from the Lendal Bridge or Coppergate closures.

The deadline to get fines refunded from either scheme is the end of March this year, and figures show that thousands of pounds are still lying unclaimed in council accounts.

Between 55 per cent and 60 per cent of fines have been handed back so far, official data shows.

Only 29,000 Lendal Bridge fines have been refunded out of a total of 48,000; while just over 6,500 out of 12,000 Coppergate fines have been paid back.

The City of York Council has now issued a statement reminding drivers to get their claims in before the deadline on Thursday, March 31.

In February last year officials wrote to 27,000 people who at the time had not currently claimed their repayment, telling them how to get their money back.

The repayments to date have cost the council £922,382 for the Lendal Bridge fines, and £211,350 for the Coppergate automatic number plate recognition scheme.

Refund applications can be made online by searching "Lendal Bridge" or "Coppergate" at www.york.gov.uk.

The council has also said it will help anyone who does not have internet access if they apply in person in the council's West Offices or over the phone on 01904 551550.