SLOWLY but surely the petrol has started to flow again in Herefordshire - but not before a malicious 'rumour' brought panic to the streets once more, writes RICHARD WILSON.

Crippled by five days without supplies, the county's pumps began working overtime to re-fill thousands of empty tanks, much to the relief of frustrated motorists.

But by Tuesday lunchtime queues full of agitated drivers began to form again as word spread that the blockades were to return.

No foundation

The rumour had no foundation, but damage was quickly done to petrol stations' dwindling stocks.

Emergency tankers first appeared in the county last Friday - although only 'essential users' were initially able to obtain fuel.

Over the subsequent days, more and more stations have been receiving general deliveries.

But the oil giants are still warning of more shortages over the coming weeks and West Mercia police are urging people to 'exercise restraint' in their use of fuel.

Inspector John Beddows said that planning for the Millennium bug had helped his 'multi-agency' team cope with the crisis.

"Before New Year's Eve we examined a very large number of eventualities which meant that we had immediate access to these contingency plans," he said.

Although it's now 'business as usual' in Herefordshire with rubbish collections resumed, the health service off 'red alert' and supermarket shelves stocked with bread and milk, the anger over fuel prices continues.

A petition available in many local pubs and shops has been enthusiastically embraced in recent days. By yesterday it had secured thousands of signatures.

Organised by Golden Valley woman Ann-Marie Impey 'on behalf of a group of mothers and Herefordshire housewives', it demands that petrol prices be brought in line with Europe.

They plan to deliver the petition to Downing Street. "We could not join the blockades so we are attempting to make our voice heard," she said.

For more information about the petition contact Ann-Marie Impey on 07970 773364.