Campaigners gather at A465 Heads of the Valleys Road in protest over rising fuel costs

A number of campaigners gathered at a major road in south Wales today (Thursday) in protest over rising fuel costs.

Police said eight vehicles staged a peaceful demonstration on the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road on Thursday (June 16) at Brynmawr near Ebbw Vale. No arrests or warnings were issued.

Drivers were advised to take alternative routes ahead of the demonstration.

Similar protests are being planned next month, including on the Prince of Wales Bridge and the Severn Bridge.

A Gwent Police spokesperson said: "We were aware of a planned protest on the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road on Thursday 16 June near Brynmawr.

"Officers attended the protest - where eight vehicles were present - to facilitate the event in a lawful, peaceful and safe manner.

"It is our public duty to ensure public safety and protect individuals going about their lawful business, and this includes those exercising their right to protest.

"Ahead of the protest taking place, we spoke to the organiser on several occasions to ensure that the event was fully compliant with the law.

"Fortunately, this event passed without incident and no arrests or warnings were issued by officers."

Fuel costs have hit new record highs in the UK, with the average petrol price now 186.59p per litre, with diesel at 192.48p.

The RAC has said the cost to fill a family car now stands at about £103 for petrol, and £106 for diesel, and called on the Government to cut fuel taxes to help motorists.

Following a request by Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, the Competition and Markets Authority is to review petrol station operators and fuel costs amid concerns a 5p per litre cut in fuel duty implemented in March has not been passed on to consumers.

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