PETROL stations began to run out of fuel as desperate motorists queued round the block to top up their tanks.

Cars filled the garage forecourts in towns across Worcestershire yesterday, but the message being sent out was not to panic, there will be more deliveries.

By the afternoon Bransford Petrol station, near Malvern, and Cheltenham Road services in Evesham had run dry and several others had imposed limited purchases.

All petrol stations in Hereford city centre had also run dry. Essential service vehicles should travel to the Ross Spur services on the A449 northbound near Junction 4 of the M50.

"We've had a constant queue of about 30 vehicles," said Marion Sommers, proprietor of the Cheltenham Road services.

"We've been pleasantly surprised at how organised it's been. No-one has complained about the wait."

At Lower Wick in Worcester motorists faced a two-hour wait before they could refuel, a queue of traffic stretched back into St John's.

And in Evesham at the Twyford Services a queue of traffic backed up along the A46 approaching Evesham from Bidford-on-Avon.

"It's been manic here," said manager Jenny Hewson.

"Since we had a delivery at noon it's been non-stop, by the look on peoples faces they're so relieved to get fuel."

One driver said she had been worried she might run out of fuel before the petrol stations opened again.

"This last week I've been constantly checking my fuel gauge," said Michelle Davies, who lives in Evesham.

"Luckily I haven't run out completely, but I've been close.

"I'm just glad to be able to drive without having to worry about whether I'll make it or not."

Other petrol stations remain as designated stations for essential services, such as doctors, nurses and funeral directors.

Anyone who is key personnel should take their driving licence, pay slip or other identification to prove they are essential services.