CROSS-Channel ferry services between Dover and Calais have been brought to a complete standstill today by angry French seafarers.

Originally, the industrial action - over the registering of ships - only affected SeaFrance, with all their services cancelled.

But this morning, an angry mob of about 70 French seamen have set up blockades of burning tyres next to the only two berths which are operating at Calais.

The P&O Ferries ship European Seaway was tied up at one of the berths at the time, and the French port workers refused to untie it to let the ship sail back to Dover and the crew had to do it themselves.

P&O Ferries' spokesman Brian Rees said: "It is quite preposterous. This strike has nothing to do with us, but they are stopping us from operating.

"We are trying to get help from the court in Boulogne, and the Chamber of Commerce and we have asked if the French riot police can be brought in to break up the mob."

The Aquitaine and Pride of Kent were both approaching Calais ready to berth, but they have now turned round and are heading back to Dover.

It is feared that the action might last until 6am tomorrow.