Dear Editor
I’m writing to urge readers across our community to think carefully before joining the rush to fill up their cars amid the current concerns around fuel.
Understandably, people are worried. Ongoing global tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel have raised fears about oil supplies, particularly with disruption around key routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
On top of that, petrol and diesel prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, with some motorists now paying over £100 to fill a tank.
It’s no surprise that many feel pressure to “fill up now before things get worse”.
However, reacting in this way is actually making the situation worse for everyone.
Reports of empty pumps are largely the result of sudden surges in demand, not because the UK has run out of fuel.
Industry experts continue to stress that there is no national shortage.
What we are seeing instead are localised issues—petrol stations temporarily running dry because too many people are trying to fill up at the same time.
When motorists panic buy, it creates a self-fulfilling problem.
Fuel deliveries cannot keep up with abnormal spikes in demand, leading to queues, frustration and unnecessary disruption for those who genuinely need fuel, including key workers and businesses.
We have seen this pattern before in the UK. Time and again, it is fear and behaviour—not actual supply—that causes forecourts to run dry.
The simple truth is this: if everyone buys fuel as they normally would, supplies remain steady. It’s only when we rush all at once that problems arise.
I would encourage readers to stay calm, avoid topping up unnecessarily, and only buy what they need.
By acting responsibly, we can help ensure that fuel remains available for everyone and prevent further disruption in our communities.
Regards
Jonathan White
Wistaston
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