Fuel protests brought Leeds to a standstill in September 2000 as the pumps ran dry leading to frustrations and long queues at garages across the city. Protesters said that higher transport costs in the UK were making it difficult for haulage industry to remain competitive. By the middle of the month 3,000 petrol stations across the UK were reported to be closed due to a lack of fuel. There were also reports that there would be no fuel left within 48 hours. These photos plucked from the YEP archive, showcase the long queues in Leeds as panic buying led to petrol stations running on empty. READ MORE: 23 photos to take you back to Leeds in 2003 LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Fuel protests
HGV staged a 'Go-Slow' protest on the M62 from Hartshead Services towards Leeds. Photo: James Hardisty
2. Fuel protests
Public support at the start of the HGVs Go-Slow protest. Photo: James Hardisty
3. Fuel protests
Robert Silkstone of Brighouse watches the start of the Go-Slow protest. Photo: James Hardisty
4. Fuel protests
Farmers and hauliers block the Total distribution depot in Cross Green. Photo: Gary Longbottom
5. Fuel protests
A convoy of tankers with a heavy police presence wait at an unnamed service station on the M62 near Leeds waiting to fill up the public filling station. Photo: PA
6. Fuel protests
Police and pickets at the Total Fina Elf depot in Hunslet. An empty tanker arrives at the depot by police escort. Photo: Emma Nichols