Fuel protests could take place on M25 and Dartford Crossing as police vow to 'deal robustly' with drivers

The posts call on drivers to block motorways and roads, adding that HGV drivers, farmers and "everyone" should get involved in the action.

Some posts point to specific routes, including the M25, Dartford Crossing, M6, M5 and even the Port of Felixstowe.

An Essex Police spokesperson told GB News: "We are aware of posts on social media relating to potential protest activity and we have plans in place to deal with any disruption on our roads.

"Our priority is to keep Essex moving and we will deal robustly with anyone who puts the safety of other road users at risk."

Traffic data from National Highways shows that there are minor delays and standstill traffic on the M25 anticlockwise entry slip at junction J1A.

However, it has not been confirmed whether this is due to any fuel protests, while normal traffic conditions are expected to return shortly.

Data from the RAC states that drivers are paying an average of 158.3p for petrol and 191.54p for a litre of diesel.

Since the outbreak of war in the Middle East on February 28, unleaded prices have risen 25.5p or 19.2 per cent, while diesel costs have soared by almost 50p per litre (34.5 per cent).

Growing support for fuel protests could be linked to action taking place in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, where hundreds of frustrated drivers have taken to the streets and motorways.

Several high-profile "go-slow" protests have taken place across the two nations to protest against expensive fuel prices.

Farmers and hauliers have participated in the protests in direct action against fuel prices, and have called on governments to slash VAT and taxes on fuel.

Northern Ireland's First Minister, Michelle O'Neill, called on Sir Keir Starmer to cut the tax, noting that more than half of what people pay at the pumps is tax.

The Sinn Féin MLA for Mid Ulster added: "The cost of living crisis is an emergency that demands immediate action.

"I will keep making people's voices heard and challenge Keir Starmer to cut fuel tax without delay."

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has started issuing fines and cautions for public order offences in response to fuel protests.

Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett said the PSNI would be reviewing footage taken during the operation to impose further punishments.

The operation was specifically looking at vehicles blocking traffic on Tuesday at the Sydenham Bypass, Westlink, M2, A1, A4, A5 and a blockade of the A6 near Toome.

He said: "The right to freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are fundamental human rights which are protected in law and allow individuals to engage in peaceful protest.

"However, these rights are balanced by the need to uphold the rights of others, protect public health and safety, minimise disruption to normal life and by the need to prevent and detect crime."