FERRY services from Dover are still being disrupted by French fishermen blockading the port of Calais.

P&O Ferries’ last sailing to Calais for several hours was at 5.15am, and the SeaFrance Rodin was the last of their ferries to sail from Calais to Dover this morning.

The fishermen are protesting about restrictions which they say could affect their jobs. There were suggestions that fishermen from other European countries, including England, might join them in their action.

P&O Ferries are operating “mini-cruises”, non-landing trips across the Channel into French waters and back to Dover again, so that passengers could buy goods on board at French duty prices.

Other passengers are being offered tickets for another day, or refunds.

Dover District Council leader Cllr Paul Watkins has expressed "serious concerns" at the blockade and the affect it has on the Port of Dover and its daily activities. He said: “It is disappointing that the French authorities do not take action to allow free access for transport.

"This is of particular concern at this busy time of year, and at a time when the ferry industry is particularly vulnerable following the job losses that have already been announced.”