SHOPKEEPERS in Bromsgrove are feeling the strain following the petrol crisis.

A lack of customers and problems with deliveries has meant some businesses have lost a lot of money and been forced to lay off staff.

The proprietor of the Country House Pantry, in Worcester Road, Mark Olorenshaw, claims the fuel shortage has hit him in the pocket.

He said: "As well as having a quiet shop, our outside catering service has suffered greatly.

"We have cancelled several contracts this week with a possible loss of £1,000 so far."

Also worried were John and Kathleen Savigar, owners of the second-hand furniture shop, Browsers, in Worcester Road.

John said: "We buy and sell furniture daily and without petrol we can only use one of our vans.

"We support the protests though, if petrol keeps going up we may have to charge for deliveries."

They also expressed concern for their daughter who is getting married in a couple of weeks.

John added: "We would have no cars to get to the church and guests would have problems too."

Bromsgrove Cobbler Martin Connellan found business slow at his shop, in Church Street.

He said he was forced to lay off two members of staff until after the weekend.

"It has flattened trade across the whole country," said Martin, who, as a director of the Society of Master Shoe Repairs, is in touch with people from all over Britain.

"I agree with the reason for the protests but I'm very glad it appears to be over."

Gill Ryder, owner of Snipz Hairdresser's, in Worcester Road, agreed, saying although the high price of petrol is "ridiculous" the crisis had meant at least six cancelled appointments.