Security has been stepped up at Kent's borders after a major terror attack in Brussels claimed at least 34 lives.

A Home Office spokesman today said staff had "taken steps to intensify our efforts" at the UK-Belgian and UK-French borders.

This included:

• Enhanced searching of inbound tourist vehicles, additional opening of car boots / transit vans
• A heightened Border Force presence at ports
• Targeted Border Force presence at specific ports, with additional security checks on some flights
• Specialist search dogs deployed at key areas including St Pancras and Dover

Eurostar suspended services to Brussels after the terror attack, but services have since resumed.

Passengers are advised to allow extra time for added security checks.

The Belgian capital is in lockdown after the attack, which left more than two dozen dead and 35 others injured, according to local media.

Two explosions ripped through the departure hall at the city's main airport this morning, killing around 13 people.

A further explosion was felt at the city's metro station, which also claimed around 15 lives.

There are reports it was a suicide attack and that shots were fired beforehand.

Now no trains are running to or from Brussels Midi station - with services terminating at Lille and passengers advised to postpone journeys.

The University of Kent is contacting staff and students in Brussels after this morning's terror attacks.

The university - which has a Postgraduate School of International Studies based in the Belgian capital - has contacted students and staff there "to make sure they are safe".

Staff have posted a contact number for urgent inquiries on its website, as well updates about the explosions in Brussels on social media.

Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, the national lead for Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “Our thoughts are with the people of Brussels following this morning’s horrific attacks.

“As a precaution forces across the UK have increased policing presence at key locations, including transport hubs, to protect the public and provide reassurance. This is not in relation to any specific information or intelligence.

“In London specifically, the Metropolitan Police Service has mobilised additional officers, who will carry out highly visible patrols at key locations around the Capital including the transport network.

“We are in close liaison with the Belgium authorities and will continue to monitor the situation" - Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley

"The number of officers deployed will be regularly assessed.These additional officers are deployed as part of reassurance measures."

He said the police presence across London and the rest of the UK was constantly under review.

He added: “We are in close liaison with the Belgium authorities and will continue to monitor the situation.

“The threat to the UK from international terrorism remains at severe as it has been since August 2014, meaning an attack is highly likely.

“We urge the public and businesses to be alert but not alarmed and report anything suspicious to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency always call 999.”

The Foreign Office says anyone affected or concerned about family and friends can contact a helpline on +44 207 008 0000.