Looking between the lines had a whole new meaning for drivers, after bungling workers painted double yellow lines around an old traffic island.
The bizarre road markings, which were spotted by motorists in Cambridge, were painted close to the city's police station.
Signs warned drivers they could face fines of £50 or £70 if they parked on the circular lines.
Going in circles: Motorists were stunned to see these double yellow lines around a traffic island in Cambridge
But motorbikes, scooters and even a Smart car could easily fit into the 8ft-wide loop, meaning drivers of these vehicles could technically escape the levy.
Brewery owner Richard Naisby, who spotted the lines, said: 'I think what they've done is taken away a sign that was there for the coaches but taken it out really badly, leaving a pothole and the double yellow lines that were around it.
'I think that would mean it was totally legal. You can imagine the baffled look of a traffic warden if you did get a vehicle to fit in there. It was totally ridiculous.'
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Bungling council officials paint double yellow lines in an alleyway which is too narrow to drive down
Cambridgeshire County Council said the lines had once gone around a traffic island, which had now been removed.
Roads official John Onslow said the confusing markings had now been painted over.
He added: 'These were old yellow lines which used to go round a traffic island that stood on the road, which was removed at the request of the bus operators.'
End of the lines: Cambridge County Council said the confusing markings have now been painted over