Fuel prices soar before bank holiday getaway

The average cost of unleaded petrol has soared to £1.29 per litre, while the price of diesel has also jumped, to an average of £1.33 per litre. 

Analysis by the Press Association shows that the price of unleaded petrol is at its highest since August 2014, while diesel hasn’t been this expensive since September 2014.

The price hikes come ahead of the busy summer bank holiday weekend, when an estimated 14.4 million vehicles are expected on the UK’s major roads between Thursday evening and Monday.

CHECK FUEL PRICES: RAC Fuel Watch

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams warned that drivers are struggling following a summer of rollercoaster fuel prices across the UK.

Forecourt price hikes have seen the average cost of filling the tank of an average 55-litre family car jumping by some £5.50 since April this year.

Mr Williams said the weakness of the pound has made it more expensive for retailers to purchase fuel, and this cost has been passed onto customers.

He added that higher fuel prices could lead to higher inflation, putting a further squeeze on household spending.

SEE ALSO: How to save fuel — the ultimate guide

The RAC recommends that drivers travelling this weekend consider setting off at quieter times to avoid long queues and help save money on fuel.

Friday and Saturday will be the busiest days on the roads with around 3.6 million cars expected on each, but drivers should prepare for delays throughout the weekend.

To help ease potential delays, Highways England is lifting or completing over 300 miles of roadworks on motorways and major routes from Friday morning.

If you’re heading out this weekend, be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest developments on the roads by using the RAC route planner.