Drivers heading to France this half-term holiday have been warned to set off with a full tank and keep it topped up as they travel.

An escalating dispute over French law changes has led to a fuel strike affecting all eight major oil refineries in the country.

Some petrol stations have run out, particularly in the north and north-west of France, with reports of some tourists left stranded.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has said: "Following industrial action (blockades of fuel depots) fuel purchasing restrictions have been put in place by local authorities in some parts of northern and northwest France.  In certain areas you may not be able to fill up jerry cans and fuel rationing may be imposed."

The AA has encouraged drivers to fill up a tank and not necessarily expect to top up when they arrive.

Spokeswoman Rosie Sanderson said: “The dispute shouldn’t stop UK drivers from changing their plans.

“Fuel is cheaper in France than in the UK and many drivers set off with low fuel and expect to top up when they arrive.  But this strategy could backfire, as petrol stations in the Channel ports are running out first.

“We’re also urging our members to moderate their driving to get the best fuel economy.  The only silver lining might be that there may be less traffic thanks to the dispute, meaning fewer traffic jams which will allow a car to travel further, typically 300 miles or more, on one tank of fuel.”

The AA’s Lyon-based European call centre is already reporting that it is helping drivers who have run out of fuel in northern France.

Ms Sanderson added: “Set off with a full tank, keep an eye on the fuel gauge as well as keeping a look out for fuel stations that still have supplies."