Drivers face delays at the Dartford Crossing this morning after two lanes of traffic were closed to allow workers to fix a faulty sign.

Motorists faced severe congestion between junction 1a at Swanscombe and junction 31 at West Thurrock with queues stretching back to junction 2 at the Darenth Interchange after problems were reported with the overhead gantry sign.

The west bore of the tunnel was closed until 7.45am because of repair work but all lanes have now been reopened.

The maintenance comes in the same week the Dart Charge was launched to start a new era at the Crossing.

From Monday, motorists no longer pay the toll fee at the booths but by phone, online or by post.

There were no reports of congestion at the first big rush-hour test of the new system.