Crude oil prices fell by more than $1 on Thursday in intraday trade after reaching a fresh 2009 high o $82 in the previous session. Gold prices also softened as commodity markets paused for breath after recent strong gains.

By late trade Nymex December West Texas Intermediate pared gains and was just 18 cents lower at $81.19. ICE December Brent also lost 18 cents to $79.51.