Cost of filling family diesel car hits £100 mark as North Devon drivers react

North Devon residents have told the Gazette they are taking on extra jobs and even selling their cars to cope with the rising cost of fuel. 

It comes after the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping route for the world's oil, remains blocked by conflict by Iran in retaliation for US and Israel strikes.

The blockage has since driven up prices at local pumps.

According to the RAC, the cost of filling a 55-litre family car with diesel has breached the £100 mark for the first time since December 2022. As of March 31, a surge in prices has pushed the average cost of diesel to 182.77p per litre, following global supply disruptions. 

The Gazette has heard from locals who say that a lack of public transport and the high cost of petrol is making daily life a “struggle.”

Mandy Morgan, who lives 13 miles outside Barnstaple, says the limited bus service means she is forced to rely on her car for essential trips.

“I don't get the bus, have trouble with disability so have no choice but to use my mobility car,” she said.

“If I didn't have that I would not get out to doctors, dentist, hospital... it's a struggle when you have no choice.” 

For others, the cost of commuting has forced them to take on extra work. 

Marie Weeks told the Gazette: “I have 2 jobs just to survive but that's racking up my miles.”

The financial pressures have even led some to change their vehicle entirely. 

Russell Tribe, said: “I've sold my diesel to buy a cheaper petrol car.”

The struggle in North Devon reflects a growing crisis across the country. 

The latest data from the RAC indicates that unleaded petrol is currently at 152.83p while diesel is at 182.77p, on average across the UK. 

Industry experts have stated that the financial strain on motorists has increased by 14.4 per cent for unleaded users in the last month alone. 

There are also growing concerns that some firms may be pushing up prices at the pump faster than necessary to profit from the global instability. 

On March 13, the Chancellor of the Exchequer said she is determined to support people with the cost of living amid conflict in the Middle East and will not stand by if firms use uncertainty as cover to push up prices and protect margins at the expense of drivers.

Ms Reeves said: “I will not tolerate any company exploiting the current situation to make excess profits at consumers’ expense. I’m backing drivers and families — and I expect a fair deal at the pump.”

Ed Miliband, Energy Secretary, added: “Tackling the cost of living is our number one priority - all fuel retailers must sign up for Fuel Finder so drivers can find the cheapest price at the pump. 

“We will not hesitate to act to protect consumers against any unfair practices.”

Despite the recent rise in fuel prices, Edmund King, President of the AA, noted that petrol is significantly cheaper than at the same time in 2025, and added that costs may fall once geopolitical risk eases and supply routes are secured.