Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hello, i have a claim form from a parking charge i got almost 3 years ago. i vaguely remember the details, i was visiting a friend and parked at the pub car park for just under an hour. When i received the parking charge my friend told me i shouldn't pay it as the pub wont peruse the ticket. I think i received a few other letters regarding it which i stupidly ignored and got the claim form a couple weeks ago. After browsing through this forum for a while i am now realizing this wont go away and i am trying to deal with it in the best way possible as the charge has gone up significantly with all the fees they have added on. I can't remember exactly because it was so long ago but i don't remember seeing any signs on the car park saying i had to pay and this was at 9pm at night during winter so it was pretty dark and also most car parks in my area are free at that time.
The claim form says "Claim for money relating to a Parking Charge for breaching of contract terms/conditions for parking in private car park managed by claimant. Drivers may only park pursuant to TCs of use displayed in CP and agreed upon entry/parking. ANPR cameras or manual patrols monitor vehicles entering/exiting the CP and breaches". The original ticket was during winter of 2023
I have logged into the MCOL system and acknowledge service of the claim although it is worth mentioning that due to my poor timing i have done it the day after the final day of the 14 day window. not sure if that affects anything but ill add it just incase.

Please anyone with any advice on how to proceed and what would be the best steps. I am currently in the process of moving out due to some family issues and really cannot afford the extra pressure of a massive parking fine even though it is my fault for ignoring all the parking charge letters. Thanks in advance for any advice.