Repair firm Autoglass is to axe hundreds of staff as soaring fuel costs led to cautious driving and hit demand for vehicle repair.

Autoglass has blamed mild weather and high fuel costs for the job cuts

The firm's owner Belron is to shed up to 400 of its 3,000 staff in the next month.

Belron told staff that mild conditions over some of the winter and higher fuel prices meant people were driving more slowly and across shorter distances.

The warmer conditions and rise in a more careful approach to driving has seen less vehicle glass damage and has reduced the size of the wider market by 11%, it said.

In a statement, the firm said: "As a result of the exceptionally mild winter combined with the increased cost of fuel, which has caused a reduction in the number of miles driven, there has been less vehicle damage and the industry, as a whole, has seen lower demand this year.

"As part of a review of resources Autoglass is entering into a 30-day consultation with its staff across the UK and will be discussing a cost reduction programme which could include a reduction in headcount.

"Autoglass is committed to its employees and will provide them with every support during this difficult time.

"We employ 3,000 people across the UK, 1,500 of which are mobile technicians based at our 101 branches. 

"The number of people affected and in which areas of the business will be determined by the consultation during the coming weeks."