Supermarkets are suffering a severe ice shortage as thousands of people rush to take part in bucket challenges.
Branches of Tesco say they have ‘completely sold out’ of ice despite ordering extra stock.
The frozen water is being bought by people doing an Ice Bucket Challenge for charity.
Daniel Smith, duty manager of Tesco, in Simonside, South Shields, said: “We sold out on Saturday and we nearly did on Sunday as well.
“We don’t usually sell so much ice at this time of year – it’s usually only this popular when big events like the World Cup are on.
“It seems like everyone is taking part in the challenge and getting behind the charity to raise money and quite a few of our staff have taken part too.
“It’s great to see so many people taking part, but before the next big craze, we’d love a bit of warning so we can stock up on whatever it is people need.”