Latest petrol and diesel prices at Preston and South Ribble fuel stations as prices surge due to Iran war

Drivers are being urged to shop around for fuel as prices continue to climb, with further increases expected in the coming days.

The latest data from the RAC shows petrol and diesel costs have surged sharply since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed global oil prices above 100 dollars a barrel.

According to the RAC, the average price of petrol has risen by nearly 12p (9%) to 144.51p per litre, while diesel has jumped by around 24p (17%) to 166.24p per litre.

Diesel drivers have been hit particularly hard, with prices rising by 2p in just the last two days.

The cost of filling a typical family car with unleaded is now £79.48 - around £6.40 more than at the start of March - while a full tank of diesel has increased by £13 to £91.43.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams warned that prices are likely to keep rising.

He said: “The oil price has been consistently above the $100 a barrel mark this week, so unfortunately further rises look all but inevitable going into next week.

“The average price of a litre of unleaded is likely to reach 150p, and diesel possibly 180p, by Easter.

“With many people heavily dependent on the car, the pressure on household budgets is beginning to intensify.”