Residents of a small village in north Wales helped track down a couple who stole £130 worth of fuel from a local garage, following a community appeal on Facebook. After the garage owner shared images of the suspects' vans online, locals spotted the pair at a nearby pub and later at a beach, keeping watch until police arrived. The couple admitted the theft and repaid the money.

The garage owner said the response from the tight-knit community was extraordinary, especially after her business had suffered three fuel thefts in six weeks. She warned that small businesses like hers could struggle to survive if such crimes continue.

Fuel thefts across the country have risen sharply over the past year, placing additional strain on forecourt operators already facing slim margins and rising costs. Higher fuel prices linked to conflict in the Middle East have increased pressure on both retailers and motorists, with the cost of filling a family car climbing significantly.