Purple ribbons highlighting the campaign to stop live animal exports are once again adorning the roads to the port of Dover.

The ribbons, which are used by campaigners as a symbol against what they describe as animal cruelty, were fixed to trees on the A2 Jubilee Way on Saturday after a 10-year absence.

Clair Hawkins, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Dover and Deal, joined campaigners for a day of action. She is also urging residents to tie a purple ribbon around their own trees at home and to sign the online petition against live animal exports.

She said: “Tying purple ribbons will send out a strong message in a symbolic and visible way that the people of Dover and Deal do not want this cruel and unnecessary trade in their town.

“A return to live animal exports travelling through the Port of Dover is a really backward step but this time we must make sure our campaign sees the trade stopped for good.”

Live exports resumed through Dover at the beginning of May when the mv Joline began operating to Calais, carrying lorries loaded with sheep.

Dover Harbour Board is not able to ban the trade. As previously reported in the Mercury, the town’s MP, Charlie Elphicke, has been told any change in the law would have to be made in Brussels, as the trade is permitted under European law.