Motorists from across mid and west Wales face renewed pressure at the pumps after UK inflation climbed again to 3.5%, driven largely by sharply rising fuel prices.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on Wednesday, 21 October, show inflation increased from 3.1% in August to 3.5% in September.

Transport costs, particularly petrol and diesel, were the biggest contributors to the increase, creating additional pressure for households reliant on their cars.

Across the UK, average petrol prices rose by 8.2p per litre between August and September, reaching 169.5p, their highest level since August 2022. Diesel prices increased by an even steeper 10.7p per litre, reaching an average of 192.5p the highest recorded since July 2022.

The increases mean filling a typical 50-litre tank of petrol cost approximately £4.10 more in September than in August, while an equivalent diesel fill-up cost £5.35 more.

The figures are UK averages, rather than prices recorded specifically in Ceredigion, Powys or Gwynedd.

Nevertheless, higher fuel costs are particularly relevant to rural communities, where longer journeys and limited public transport alternatives can make car ownership essential.

Residents travelling between towns such as Aberystwyth, Machynlleth, Lampeter and Cardigan may face additional costs commuting to work, attending appointments or accessing everyday services.

The ONS reported that transport prices overall rose by 6.6% in the year to September, compared with 4.6% in August.

Motor fuel prices were 29.8% higher than a year earlier.

The wider inflation increase also means prices across the economy are rising faster, although it does not mean every household will experience the same increase in living costs.

The latest figures leave inflation above the Bank of England's 2% target, highlighting the continuing pressure on household budgets.