Unexploded WW2 mines disrupt Dover to Calais ferries

MyFerryLink said it had cancelled two services between Dover and Calais

Two unexploded World War Two mines discovered near the port of Calais led to the cancellation of a number of cross-Channel ferries.

The bombs, which were more than 70 years old, were of British origin and were found on the beach near the port.

One, thought to be booby-trapped, could not be moved. The operation to defuse the bombs was carried out by divers from the French Navy.

Roads into Calais were closed and drivers were being diverted to Dunkirk.

MyFerryLink said the Port of Calais was closed until 13:30 BST and one of its ferry crossings each way between Dover and Calais was cancelled. Another was subject to possible delay or cancellation.

P&O Ferries advised day-trippers not to travel and said passengers booked on affected services would be able to rebook free of charge.

It said its services from Dover to Calais were still operating, with alighting traffic being diverted away from closed areas of the town.

Calais to Dover services were suspended until the port closure ended.