CROSS-Channel ferry services from Dover to Calais returned to normal this afternoon after French workers called off their strike over reforms to the state pension system.

The Port of Calais was closed for several hours, and passengers who had booked places on ferries were advised to delay their travel plans.

Some were offered alternative crossings through the Channel Tunnel.

The strike was called off at noon - a few hours earlier than anticipated - and ferry services returned to normal.