Earlier this month and last, there were widespread issues across the UK, including Oxfordshire, as drivers faced empty pumps at forecourts amid the conflict in the Middle East.

Prices also soared before eventually falling, triggered by the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a temporary truce between the United States and Iran.

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Now, RAC head of policy Simon Williams has warned drivers that the price of petrol has become the most expensive since the conflict began.

“The sudden spike in the price of crude oil due to the latest tensions in the Middle East is likely to be a setback for drivers,” he said.

“While the price of unleaded at the pumps has fallen by more than a penny since peaking on 15 April at 158.31p, our analysis of wholesale costs shows petrol is now more expensive for retailers to buy than at any time since the war began.

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“However, diesel, which has come down by 3p a litre, is currently well below its highest wholesale price since the start of the conflict, so should fall further.

“The switch round in wholesale cost trends is partly due to the time of year, as the market for petrol tends to increase in the spring as people in the US begin to drive more, whereas the price of diesel often reduces as Western Europe’s use of heating oil, which is made from the same part of the barrel, lessens as the temperature warms up.”

This comes after reports that Tesco in Banbury was out of fuel at the end of last month, while others said there was no diesel at several other petrol stations in Oxfordshire.

Planning on getting out and about with your four-legged friend? Well, you’ve been warned.

Several instances could put pets at risk during long walks, garden gatherings and days out near lakes or rivers.

As warmer weather encourages more time outdoors, Darren Beale, CEO of Years, the fresh dog food brand, says the long weekend can create a “perfect storm” for dogs.

“Bank holidays usually mean longer walks, busier parks, BBQs, garden time and trips to lakes or beaches,” says Darren.

“That is great for dogs, but it also increases the chance of them eating, drinking or stepping on something they shouldn’t.”

Bank holiday risks dog owners should watch for:

Lakes, ponds and stagnant water

Dogs should not be allowed to drink from stagnant water, ponds, canals or lakes, especially in warmer weather.

Some water can contain bacteria, parasites or blue-green algae, which can be dangerous.

“Always take fresh water with you on walks,” says Darren.

“If your dog is thirsty, they are much more likely to drink from puddles, lakes or standing water before you can stop them.”

Long walks in warmer weather

Owners planning longer bank holiday walks should avoid the hottest part of the day and watch for signs of overheating.

“Dogs do not always know when to stop,” Darren explains.

“Heavy panting, slowing down, drooling or seeming disoriented can all be warning signs.

“Shorter, shaded walks are often safer than pushing for a big route in warm weather.”

BBQ scraps and picnic food

Cooked bones, skewers, onions, corn on the cob, fatty scraps and dropped food can all cause problems for dogs.

“Bank holiday food is one of the easiest risks to overlook,” says Darren.

“Dogs will scavenge if they get the chance, so BBQ areas, picnic blankets and bins need to be kept out of reach.”

Grass seeds and sharp debris

After walks through long grass, fields, or parks, owners should check paws, ears, and coats for grass seeds, thorns, or sharp debris.

“Grass seeds can lodge in paws, ears or skin and sometimes need veterinary treatment,” Darren says.

“A quick check after a walk can prevent a small irritation from becoming a bigger issue.”

Garden chemicals and compost

Compost, mulch, fertilisers and slug pellets can all be dangerous if eaten, particularly during spring when gardens are being refreshed.

“Dogs are drawn to strong smells, so compost and garden products can be tempting,” says Darren.

“Anything used in the garden should be stored securely and kept well away from pets.”

Darren’s bank holiday safety checklist for dog owners

• Take fresh water on every walk
• Avoid letting dogs drink from lakes, ponds or stagnant water
• Walk earlier or later in the day if it is warm
• Keep BBQ food, skewers and bins out of reach
• Check paws, ears and coats after walks
• Store compost, fertilisers and slug pellets securely
• Keep dogs supervised around unfamiliar gardens, lakes and picnic spots

“Most bank holiday risks are avoidable,” Darren adds.

“The key is planning ahead and seeing the day from your dog’s perspective.

“What smells interesting, what looks edible, and what might they run towards before you have time to react?”

What are you doing this weekend? Let us know in the comments