The Port of Dover has declared a “critical incident” which it blamed on “woefully inadequate” French border control staffing, as queues of up to six hours built up.
This year's “Frantic Friday” is set to be one of the busiest summer holiday periods ever but millions of Brits have already been slowed down by travel hold-ups at ports and airports.
“We are deeply frustrated that the resource at the French border overnight and early this morning has been woefully inadequate to meet our predicted demand and even more deeply regret the consequences that will now be felt by so many,” The Port of Dover said.
Traffic has reportedly now started to move, but there is a “backlog” that won’t be cleared quickly, it added.
The Port posted on Twitter: ”The Port is working to do all it can with ferry operators and local partners to assist with clearing the queues caused by inadequate French border capacity.
“Resource at the French border has increased this morning and traffic is slowly beginning to move, but it will take some time to clear the backlog.”
It also advised travellers to come well-equipped with food and water, as well as to check with ferry operators on any developments regarding the situation.