Traffic is gridlocked between Dover and Folkestone this morning as lorries wait to board ferries at the port.

Police described HGVs as 'static' from Aycliffe, with tailbacks stretching all the way back to Folkestone.

The delays are exacerbated by two fewer ferries serving the port, a situation which may continue for much of the week.

A DFDS Seaways ship hit the harbour wall two days ago and is expected to be out of action for between four and six days.

Another P&O ferry has gone for a service, and it is not known when it will be back in operation.

A spokesman for the Port of Dover said high volumes of traffic were also to blame.

Lorries are said to be at a standstill in Townwall Street and around the port and up as far as Jubilee Way.

An accident on the M2 on Tuesday also caused a knock-on effect.

It comes as the Port released figures yesterday, claiming the amount of road haulage transport has gone up by nearly 10%.

Kent Police advised motorists to take another route if possible.