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26/09/2008 09:23:12

Diesel pump contaminated with illegal fuel

A £500 fine was issued to a motorist by Customs Offices when they discovered he had red diesel in his tank.

The motorist had just left a Bradford petrol station after filling up his car with diesel, where he goes on a weekly basis, when the investigators pulled him over. The driver explained how shocked he was that they discovered the illegal fuel in his vehicle and that he had unknowingly acquired the red diesel when he filled up.

Red diesel, which is confined for agricultural use is tax reduced and illegal. So that it can be detected it contains a red dye. If a motorist is found to be using illegal fuel in their vehicle they will have to pay an on the spot penalty of £500, or could have their vehicle seized.

An investigation carried out by customs officers found minimal traces of red diesel in a pump. The boss of the garage explained that this must have been contaminated by the delivery truck, which also makes red diesel deliveries. As there was only a minimal trace Customs and Excise were unable to act upon it.

The motorist, who is appealing to get his money back, is concerned that other motorists may also be filling up with contaminated fuel without realising.

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