White van man Tony Buckton gets tips on how to cope with soaring fuel costs

ROCKETING pump prices have left removal man Tony Buckton forking out an extra £2,400 per year on fuel — and it is threatening his business.

The 58-year-old often spends his weekends driving over 800 miles to get the job done, but is forced to scrimp and save to pay the bills.

He cannot afford a much-needed replacement boiler and is struggling to buy basic necessities.

Self-employed Tony has to shell out £680 on diesel every month — £200 more than this time last year.

Tony, from Middlesbrough, has turned to the Sun on Sunday’s Squeeze Team for help.

The grandfather-of-one said: “Fuel has gone through the roof. I used to be able to fill up for £70 but now it’s £90.

“I’ve lost jobs because I’ve had to put the prices up. Some people don’t realise the price of fuel or running a van.”

Tony earned just £12,000 in 2021 but is expected to make even less this year, despite long hours and back-breaking work.

He said: “My standard of living is low. I work really hard but I can’t go out or get away as much as I would like.

"I haven’t been on holiday for two years and I can’t treat myself or my family to anything.

“I have no choice but to make sacrifices. If fuel goes up any more I am really not sure what I’ll do.”

Q: Is there a cheaper way to insure my van?

MARTYN James, of independent consumer resolution ­service Resolver, said: “If you’re mid-contract, there will be a fee for leaving your insurer earlier, so have a look at reducing the premiums.

“Go through your contract and see if you’re paying for extras you just don’t need.

“If you’re switching, bear in mind not all deals are on comparison sites, so speak to friends for recommendations.

“Paying annually is cheaper than monthly — though that’s not possible for most people.”

Q: How will I survive if prices rise higher?

TRANSPORT expert Martyn James said: “I’d love to say that prices are going to come down soon — but sadly, that doesn’t seem likely.

“So fuel efficiency is the name of the game.

“Don’t fill the tank to the top as it makes the van heavier and therefore more expensive to run.

“In fact, try to remove anything you don’t need.

“You might have to make some decisions about long distance jobs or focus locally for the coming months.”