AN investigation has been launched to identify four men seen brawling over fuel at a filling station in Chichester.

The confrontation was filmed at an Esso petrol station in Selsey Road on Friday evening as hundreds rushed to the pumps.

Footage of the fight shared on Facebook and Twitter reportedly shows a father and son confronting another father and son over fuel.

The men were filmed throwing punches at each other in the forecourt while amused onlookers watched on before the group wrestled each other to the floor.

Enquiries are ongoing into the incident, which took place shortly after 11pm, and police are working to identify the four people involved.

No arrests have been made at this time, Sussex Police confirmed.

A spokesman for the force said: "Police are aware of footage circulating online and would ask the public to refrain from publicly speculating on the identities of those involved while an investigation is underway.

"Anybody with information can report it online or by calling 101, quoting serial 1640 of 24/09."

It comes as drivers were pictured queuing for miles at the filling stations on Monday as the episode of panic buying continued.

Army tanker drivers have now been put on standby in preparation to deliver fuel in order to ease the chaos at petrol stations, the Government has announced in the face of mounting pressure.

Military drivers will get specialised training in preparation for their deployment while certain HGV licences will be extended to help tackle the issue, ministers announced on Monday.

An extension to ADR driver licences permitting drivers to maximise their available capacity instead of being taken out of circulation for refresher training purposes was also announced.

The move comes after many filling stations ran dry after drivers made a dash for the pumps amid fears a shortage of tanker drivers would hit supplies.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The men and women of our armed forces stand ready to alleviate the transport pressures where they are felt most.

“That is why I have authorised their increased preparedness so they are ready to respond if needed.”