Parking in the the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean is now quicker and easier than ever thanks to a new app being launched by their district councils.

PayByPhone, which replaced the previous MiPermit app from October 1, is free to use. The previous 10p admin charge has been scrapped.

PayByPhone is said to be one of the largest providers of cashless parking services in the UK and many residents and visitors will already have the app installed on their smartphone. It will be in use at all council car parks across the Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds.

Cllr Claire Vaughan, Forest of Dean District Council's cabinet member for town centres, said: "The new PayByPhone parking app is very convenient and a good idea, especially if you get stuck in a queue in a shop or stay behind at work and can't get back to your car on time.

"You can update the payment from wherever you are. The app also has built in time reminders for those that worry about when a ticket expires. No more fussing about queuing on a rainy day and worrying if you have the right change."

Cllr Mike Evemy, Cotswold District Council deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, added: "Not only does paying this way give more flexibility for drivers, but by reducing the amount of cash in the machines, we can reduce the risks of theft and vandalism. It will also reduce the number of people needing to use the machines."

Once loaded onto your device, PayByPhone is simple to use. Drivers enter the location number of the car park, select how long they want to stay and confirm their payment.

The app also has a range of features including a handy reminder telling you when your parking period is due to end, multiple payment methods and 24/7 support service (also available by phone free of charge).

Those residents who do not have a smartphone can rest assured that they can still pay by card. The council's have said they are planning to end cash payments by March 2021.