AS PETROL prices dropped to their lowest in almost a year motorists welcomed the news by heading for the pumps at York's cheapest forecourts.

Within hours of supermarket Asda slashing unleaded petrol prices by 3p to 76.9p a litre - the lowest since April last year - Tesco followed suit, attracting drivers in their droves.

Some motorists said they had deliberately steered clear of service stations such as Sainsbury whose prices had remained unchanged while others admitted using garages which were convenient.

Speaking from Asda at Monks Cross, retired businessman Noel Ward, from York, said: "I have just been to shop at Sainsbury and always buy my petrol there, but only if it's competitive."

However, the 79.7pence petrol price led him to think twice and drive across to Asda. "I think others should follow suit. Petrol is far too expensive and we pay far too much tax on it. I spend about £1,600 a year on petrol and it has obviously gone up in the last 12 months," he said.

Philip Sutton, of York, also welcomed the price drop: "It is great. I use petrol and lots of it, maybe between £30 and £40 a week. It is about time they dropped the price."

Also on Asda's forecourt was Craig McCloskey, a commuter from Strensall, who said: "I was on my way to Sainsbury, then saw their price and came straight here. I think it is very good for the motorist, but I believe the Government should cut their tax on petrol. Although this may be the start of a price war, I hope it is the end of the major hikes the petrol companies are imposing on us."

Mother-of-four Melanie Gough, of Huby, was disappointed that diesel prices had not fallen as well as she spent about £50 on fuel a week, with much of that taken up doing the school run.

"I spend an absolute fortune on diesel. I do most things for convenience, but I should really look more at the prices," she said.

"I typically spend £50 a week on diesel. Fuel is a total nightmare so the cheaper the better."

Maurice Hodgon, who paid about £15 a week on petrol, said the price drop was "a good idea".

"It is dear enough and needs coming down," he said.

But he admitted that he would still get his petrol at Asda even if it was cheaper elsewhere because he shopped at the supermarket, adding: "A penny or two doesn't make much difference."

Mother-of-two Andrea Franklin said: "At one time I really watched petrol prices, but now I go somewhere for convenience. I wouldn't make the effort to go somewhere cheaper - having two kids in the car, it is not worth it for the few pence it would save."

Asda said its latest reduction was the result of an over-supply in the market.

Sainsbury reviewed its pricing policy following the price drop. A spokeswoman said petrol was priced locally, and was reviewed daily with the aim of being "the cheapest in any area".

Updated: 08:33 Thursday, January 06, 2005