Disruption is set to spill over onto the roads of Kent as industrial action in France hits cross-Channel ferry traffic.

The Dover Traffic Access Protocol (TAP) scheme on the A20 between the town and Folkestone has been implemented due to strikes this evening halting shipping movements in Calais.

To manage the flow of vehicles to the port, the introduction of TAP will see one coastbound lane closed to hold traffic heading to the ferries.

The protocol is regularly deployed to help prevent backlogs at the Eastern Docks snarling up the streets of the town.

P&O Ferries, which operates sailings for freight and passengers between Dover and Calais, has apologised to customers for disruption caused by the industrial unrest.

The firm said: "We have just been advised that due to industrial action, ship operations in the Port of Calais will be suspended tonight between 20:00-22:00 CET.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused and we will get you on your way as soon as possible."

The company later said the next sailing will not depart Calais until 11pm local time.

DFDS has also confirmed to its customers that its services are likewise affected.

TAP was released shortly before 9pm.