Petrol stations across Havering are running short of fuel due to panic buying over the fear of strikes. This morning the union threatening to strike has said there will be no industrial action until after Easter.

Sainsbury’s petrol station in the Brewery, Romford have closed three out of their six pumps.

They have also been forced to call for help from staff from the main store.

Worker Robyn Nugend said: “It has been really hectic.

“There are cars queuing right from the Brewery roundabout and we have staff out helping to direct the drivers to the pumps.”

The Harrow Service Station in Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch has also run out of all fuel apart from ultimate diesal.

A spokesman said: “People are panic buying and that’s the reason we have run out of fuel.

“We had a delivery this morning, but it hasn’t made any difference.”

This morning, the Unite union, said there would be no action until after Easter.

Assistant general secretary Diana Holland said: “We do still retain the right to call strike action for after Easter, should those talks break down.

“It should be stressed that what we are seeking is reasonable and no more than what is in place elsewhere in the industry... This is not a political dispute. It is an industrial dispute and the government’s recent rhetoric will not help us achieve a negotiated settlement.”

Have you been stuck in queues while waiting to fill up your vehicle?

If so we would love to hear from you, please contact us at news.desk@romfordrecorder.co.uk