Operation Stack has been implemented on the M20 - including a contraflow system.

Phase one of the operation, which turns the coastbound carriageway between junctions 11 (Hythe) and 12 (Chertion) into a lorry park for freight traffic, was put in force this afternoon.

But it includes a contra-flow system, which allows two-way flow of traffic on this stretch of the M20

It comes as the clean-up and investigation following the major fire in the Channel Tunnel last week continues to disrupt cross-Channel services.

Kent Police and partner agencies have also implemented a contra-flow system which allows a two-way flow of traffic on the London bound carriageway.

Police have already warned that Stack is likely to affect people who live, work or travel in Kent for weeks to come as repairs to the fire-damaged Channel Tunnel could take months to complete.

More than 750 trucks can queue on the M20 during phase one of Operation Stack according to police, which is more than the 620 combined parking spaces available at the Channel Tunnel and the Port of Dover.

Police have also agreed to trial a segregation system for Port of Dover traffic, although for safety reasons it is not possible to do this if Stack phase two is put in place.

Eurotunnel services are at around a third of usual volume, with trains between England and France using the south tunnel only. The north tunnel remains closed while the French authorities investigate the fire which broke out on September 11.

• See how the fire drama unfolded >>>

• People wanting to get a refund or exchange their tickets can contact their centre on 0870 5353535.

Useful links:

• Visit the Eurostar website >>>

• Visit the Eurotunnel website >>>

• Visit the Port of Dover's website >>>

• Visit the Highways Agency website >>>

Travel operators can be contacted as follows:

P&O Ferries: 08716 646464

Norfolkline ferries: 0870 870 1020

SeaFrance sailings: 0871 22 22 500

SpeedFerries: 0871 222 7456