Fuel drivers' peace deal reached

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The breakthrough came at the end of all-day talks between leaders of the Unite union and managers from haulage firms Hoyer and Suckling Transport.

Hundreds of drivers went on strike for four days, leading to fuel shortages mainly at Shell garages across the country.

The union had warned of further strikes this weekend, but that has now been averted.

A brief statement said: "Hoyer, Suckling and Unite are pleased to confirm that they have successfully concluded pay talks."

Following a meeting at the union's headquarters in London, Unite will recommend a new pay deal to its drivers, details of which were being kept secret.

Drivers will now be balloted over the coming week, with a recommendation to accept. In the meantime, all industrial action has been called off, including a ban on overtime.

The union had been seeking a pay rise to give drivers a basic of around £36,000 and accused Shell of refusing to intervene in the row.

Hundreds of garages were still out of one or more types of fuel today, causing continuing problems for motorists.

Chairman of Shell James Smith said: "We are delighted that Hoyer and Unite have reached this stage in their negotiations."