LC, This is so wierd, cos i had nearly the same thing... Bought car tax online, it didnt turn up in time, showed police email confirmation from DVLA - not interested. i didnt get a fine - as the DVLA had proof i had paid, but the Police notice i recieved was maddening, as was their response when i called in to see them on LL. Had i not been there they had called the DVLA to tow my car(they then crush them, yes really), even though i bought my tax from the DVLA!!! grrrrr.