I always have trouble with ambiguity. The Bentley manual says to retract (loosen) the parking brake by prying upwards on the star fitting with a screwdriver. Does that mean my hand is moving up and star down, or that my hand is moving down while I'm spinning the star up (starting low on the star with the screwdriver). I assume the latter, but come on . . . .
Now to be 102% certain look either at the threads or at the direction of travel of the brake pads. Eventually they shoudl touch the drums. The back off.