Warnings from government ministers not to panic buy petrol seemed to fuel an increase in demand at local garages.

Many garages have reported long queues after Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude suggested drivers should fill up any spare jerry cans with petrol and keep them in garages.

This advice was later withdrawn after fire safety experts warned of the dire consequences that could arise as a result of people storing large amounts of petrol in their garages or sheds.

Fuel tanker drivers have threatened to strike and although the Prime Minister and other MPs h said there is no need to panic buy they encouraged drivers to keep their petrol tanks full.

Many people are worried that the seven day's notice the union is required to give before going on strike is not going to be long enough if stocks are already depleted. Talks are due to take place tomorrow, Wednesday, April 4th.

A steward, directing traffic at Morrisons had been doing six hour shifts on Thursday and was expected to do the same on the Friday.