I have been there and one this too.
DVLA are shite end of.
They are still sending me reminders and letters for a car that was scrapped 3 years ago.
They received the V5 from "SIGNED" for, and a FAX direct from approved recyclers.
Since then there have been two letters confirming they know it has been scrapped, and still more bills and threats of court action.
I have since photographed the car at the scrapyard, but still they send them.
This has happened on four out of the last 5 cars that were got rid of by me, three of those went straight into the crusher, V5 sent by approved recyclers etc same crap letters threats.
The onus is on THEM, courts are well aware the ROYAL FAIL lose pretty much anything it touches, and will not convict you, DVLA will not take you to court, they send a officer to see if the car is parked on the public road, that's all they can do, as they can't prove you are using it untaxed as you aren't!!
tabetha