Bermudians have been reassured that the Island will not suffer a shortage in fuel supplies because of the recent floods and mud slides in Venezuela.

Fears have been expressed that the disaster might lead to problems because the Central American state is a major supplier of crude oil.

But yesterday, both Shell and Esso said their supplies were guaranteed and the floods would not have any adverse affects.

Shell project manager David Rose said: "Our supplies are not going to be affected at all. Our fuel comes from Curacao, not directly from Venezuela, although Curacao buys some crude from Venezuela.'' Edward Edelson, Esso's country manager in Bermuda, said: "Our next shipment is not due until February so we have supplies at least into March and beyond.

"There are no reported problems in the oil-producing areas of Venezuela or the port. Caracas is not where the oil centre is.

"From what we know, there should be no impact on our crude supplies out of Venezuela.''