29/03/12…Police urge drivers to keep calm as Thame runs out of fuel

AS THAME runs out of fuel fast because of panic buying, the police have issued a statement to quell rumours that that themselves are closing petrol stations.

The statement reads: “Thames Valley Police would like members of the public to bear in mind that members of the UNITE union are still in talks with their employers, dedicated to finding a solution which will make strike action unnecessary.

“There is currently no problem with fuel supplies reaching petrol stations in Thames Valley and therefore we would urge all motorists to continue as normal with fuel purchases ? there is no need to stock up. Petrol stations in Thames Valley are not being closed by police.

“Misinformation that is being spread online and through word of mouth has the potential to cause panic buying which could result in petrol stations not being able to keep up with demand.

“Keep following the Thames Valley Police Facebook page and @thamesvp on Twitter for the latest accurate information which will be updated if and when it becomes necessary.”

Head of Force Joint Operations Unit, Chief Supt Chris Shead said: ?Communities within Thames Valley can be assured that we have full contingency plans prepared and are in a position to respond to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum if strike action takes place.

?We also have plans in hand to ensure that if strikes occur, police and other emergency services and other critical local agencies can maintain their normal response service across the Thames Valley.?

General advice for motorists:
? Don?t change your purchasing behaviour; refuel as
you normally would, planning ahead if you have a
long journey to go on;
? Stick to speed limits as this helps conserve fuel;
? Don?t queue at petrol forecourts, this causes
congestion and increases disruption;
? Check travel sites and latest news before
travelling.

PETROL SPILLAGE – Time: 17:40 – SOURCE: BBC Oxford

The M40 Oxfordshire, northbound between A361 [M40 junction 11] and B4451 [M40 junction 12]
is blocked and stationary traffic northbound between J11, A361 (Banbury) and J12, B4451 (Gaydon), because of a fuel spillage.