PETROL stations across North Somerset are reporting long queues and fuel shortages as motorists panic buy fuel ahead of a potential tanker driver strike.

The Times understands more than one forecourt is running low on petrol or diesel today, with drivers stocking up on fuel.

Traffic is also heavy around many garages.

Keith Summerhayes, manager at Lodway Service Station in Lodway, Pill, said: “We have had a 60 per cent increase in fuel sales this morning on yesterday.

“Ten people this morning have come in with fuel cans since we opened at eight.”

He said it would cost �57,000 to refill the forecourt, and as a result the station will not be taking extra supplies.

Mr Summerhayes warned people not to panic buy as it could impact on people’s ability to get to work when fuel runs out.

He added: “When it’s gone it’s gone, and when you can’t go to work, you can’t go to work.”

*We are hearing reports that at least one garage has put petrol prices up overnight. Are prices going up at your local garage?

*Keep following the Times website throughout the day for updates.