Two men have been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault following an alleged incident on-board a cross-Channel ferry.

Passengers were forced to stay on the Spirit of France ship once it reached Dover for almost an hour yesterday as police officers dealt with the matter.

Port of Dover Police spokesman Justine Wingate confirmed they were called to a report of an assault.

“Officers attended and two men, one aged 46 and one aged 25, were arrested on suspicion of sexual assault,” she said.

“They are currently in custody.”

Dan Bridgett, spokesman for P&O Ferries, said an allegation had been made during the sailing, which was passed to the police.

“As is our standard practice, disembarkation from the ship was unfortunately delayed for 45 minutes while officers arrived to meet the individuals involved,” he said.

“We would like to apologise sincerely to the other passengers for any inconvenience this may have caused to their onward journeys.”

In a separate incident on the same sailing, a small fire broke out on the lower decks during routine maintenance work.

“This was extinguished by the crew within two minutes in accordance with all correct maritime procedures,” added Mr Bridgett.

“At no point were any passengers in danger.”