Two new ferry services - to Boulogne and Dieppe - are due to be launched from Dover tomorrow.

It will be the first time Dover has been linked with Dieppe.

The services are being operated by LD Lines.

The first sailing to Boulogne is due to leave Dover's Eastern Docks at 7am, and initially there will be two round trips a day. This will be expanded in the summer.

There will be one round trip a day to Dieppe.

The routes are being welcomed by Dover Harbour Board chief executive Bob Goldfield.

“We know from our own research that one of the real benefits of a ferry crossing to a haulier is the break it gives the driver,” he said.

“The Dover-Dieppe route also avoids an extra 250 kilometres of driving for those travelling to and from the west and south of France and beyond.

“The same applies to tourists, who will now be able to choose to cut out road miles to their holiday destinations – and get the chance to walk around, eat a meal and take a break while on board. For many, the holiday atmosphere starts as soon as they land at Boulogne or Dieppe.

“We are delighted to see ferry operators investing, yet again, in services through the Port of Dover, underlining the acute need for the planned second ferry terminal.”

There is one disappointment, however. Foot passengers will not be able to use the new Boulogne service because there are no check-in facilities available at the Eastern Docks for passengers without vehicles.