Drones have been banned from flying within 2.6 miles of the Port of Dover amid concerns they pose a "national security risk".

The Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps issued the order, which has already been signed into law.

It states no unmanned aircraft is allowed to fly within 2.25 nautical miles of what is Europe's busiest ferry port, or within less than 1,000 feet above it.

The order says: "The Secretary of State has decided that it is necessary in the public interest to restrict the flying of unmanned aircraft in the vicinity of the Port of Dover owing to its status as critical national infrastructure and its associated national security risk."

The ban does not apply to Kent Police, the fire service, unmanned aircraft operating with the permission of the Port of Dover police, or a balloon or kite.

KMTV reported as new drone regulations came into force

The security threat posed by drones was highlighted last Christmas when their presence caused all flights to be suspended at Gatwick Airport.

Read more: All the latest news from Dover