Schools in Sussex have only enough fuel to run until the weekend, with services next week depending on the speed of deliveries.

Ken Lloyd, director of community services in West Sussex, said: "We are working on emergency measures for deliveries to every school next week.

"At the same time we are coping with getting 11,000 pupils there and back each day and operating 130 coach and taxi routes."

The effects of the fuel crisis will still be felt elsewhere across Sussex during the next few days as petrol remains scarce, despite the ending of the blockades.

Thieves siphoning from vehicles in multi-storey car parks present a danger to safety, firefighters warned.

West Sussex fire safety commander Cliff Webb said: "There is a very high risk that fuel will leak or spill and the resulting vapour will lead to an explosion or fire."

The Department of Trade and Industry is giving community and emergency care staff in Sussex priority for fuel deliveries.

The Brighton Farmers' Market, due to be held at the town's racecourse on Sunday, has been cancelled.

Organiser Russell Hollin said: "Farmers have called to say they do not have enough reserves to get them to the market.

"The irony is that they were set to net much-needed earnings by selling direct to the public.

Most National Express coaches are running normally, but there is some disruption at a local level.

Passengers should call 0141 332 2468 to check.

Defence Minister Dr Lewis Moonie and Hove MP Ivor Caplin were due to visit MBM Technology at Portslade today.

The minister has had to cancel because he is a member of the crisis cabinet dealing with the fuel blockades and is needed in Downing Street.

Emergency services are receiving petrol supplies but their personnel are running desperately low.

Some firefighters are now cycling to their stations. One, who travels from Lewes to Brighton, said: "Fortunately, the weather is kind at the moment."

Police in Brighton are being tipped off when a fuel supply reaches a garage.

Insp Kevin Claxton said: "Garages are serving essential-service personnel like nurses and we are attending at the sites to make sure everything runs smoothly and there are no confrontations."

Police said crime is down because of the crisis. Brighton police had 70 calls last night instead of the usual 90 to 100.

The WRVS issued an urgent appeal for volunteer drivers to deliver meals-on-wheels. To help call Ian on 01323 845906 or David on 01403 256622.