I might have shot myself in the foot by not coming here first but would appreciate any advice, thank you in advance.
On 12th July the driver had never been on this road before. the sat nav indicated to leave the A580. The left lane was marked on the road as a bus lane but the overhead gantry indicated to use this lane to turn left, other two were for straight on. So the driver used the bus lane to exit the road, assuming it was a part time bus lane.
on 22nd July, the driver went away for two weeks.
Returned home 6th Aug to find a PCN. It's marked as posted on 19th July. Attempted to return to get pictures but couldn't for a few days, decided to pay. Paid £30 on 19th Aug was given a payment reference. Paid within 14 days of actually opening it. Have not since received any receipt or acknowledgment of payment.
In September received Charge Certificate.
Wrote to Salford City council 10th Sept, got proof of postage (Sorry, didn't see your advice sooner). Saying we were away didn't get the PCN until 6th Aug, paid within 14 days, here's the payment ref.
No reply.
7th October received TE3 Order for recovery of unpaid penalty charge.
Advice gratefully received.
https://imgur.com/a/mOsFksFhttps://imgur.com/a/9y6r0fq