UK: Petrol shortage looms as strike begins

Motorists are facing an increasing threat of fuel shortages as supplies to Shell stations begin to dry up and drivers from other companies refuse to cross picket lines.

Members of the Unite union walked out of fuel depots nationwide at 6am and reported that drivers working for other firms including BP were choosing not to cross pickets.

Tanker drivers not involved in the dispute were cheered and applauded at the Stanlow refinery at Ellesmere Port, Cheshire when they turned away in the first signs of the dispute escalating.


A driver also decided against crossing a 30-strong picket at the Kinsgbury refinery in Warwickshire.

At Jarrow in South Tyneside, Shell’s oil terminal appeared virtually deserted during what would be one of the busiest parts of the day.

Telegraph