MOTORISTS across Dorset are being told 'there is no need to panic buy' amid concerns that there is a fuel shortage.

There have been scenes of drivers queuing at petrol stations across Dorset after concerns about a shortage of fuel in recent days.

A number of motorists have visited filling stations across the county, namely in Weymouth, Ferndown, Poole and Bournemouth, throughout today (Friday, September 24).

This has caused long queues and congestion on roads around petrol stations, with Travel Dorset reporting congestion on the A35 in Bridport, A351 Sandford Road, A348 and Mercery Road in Weymouth.

Dorset Police say the resulting delays is having an impact on other motorists and affecting critical and emergency services.

Dorset Police, Dorset Council, Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service all met today to discuss the issue and provide reassurance to communities that it will not impact on their services to the public.

They are collectively calling for the public to behave sensibly and not panic buy.

Superintendent Dean O’Connor, of Dorset Police, said: “Like many other parts of the country, Dorset is experiencing a delay in delivery of fuel to forecourts, but there is no suggestion that there is a fuel shortage.

“We have received multiple reports today of roads being blocked as a result of people queuing to buy petrol and diesel. I would strongly urge people to not panic buy as it is only compounding the situation.”

Dorset Echo:

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: "There is currently no fuel shortage in Dorset. I would urge all motorists to not panic buy fuel; only buy what you need when you need it and to be considerate of others."

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service Area Manager Seth Why said: “There is no fuel issue in Dorset, and you will not see a delay in receiving an emergency response from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue. We would urge the public to remain calm, not stockpile fuel and be considerate of others when using fuel stations.”

Councillor Drew Mellor, Leader of BCP Council, said: “I would very much like to reiterate the messages issued by partner agencies and reassure people that there are no fuel shortages in the BCP or wider Dorset area.

"Panic buying only creates disruption, please be considerate and only buy what you need when you need it.’