MORE than 100 reports were filed by Cheshire Police in July alone for people fuelling up their cars without paying.

Across the county, there have been increases in the number of people making off from petrol stations without paying for the fuel.

Cheshire Police are issuing a warning to any motorists who commit theft such as this.

Warrington Guardian: Fuel thefts in July spiked, according to Cheshire PoliceFuel thefts in July spiked, according to Cheshire Police (Image: Newsquest)

According to the police, any motorist found to have stolen fuel will face a fine, and in some cases, a jail sentence.

The police detail the various means that they use to catch fuel thieves, including number plate recognition technology, and even facial recognition, too.

Cheshire Police were keen to acknowledge that a number of drivers will return to the petrol station to pay for fuel if they had driven off without paying - but they are warning those motorists who willfully commit fuel theft.

Chief Superintendent Peter Crowcroft said: “We appreciate that times are hard for everyone with the cost of living soaring, however, we cannot stand by and allow a small minority of people to get away with the theft of fuel.

“This may seem trivial to some but as police, we have a job to do and if you are committing any type of crime, we will prosecute you."