Dover port returns to normal after masked 'Stop The Boats' protest blocked roads

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Play Mute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently playing live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen Credit: NoseyMan Productions / Mark Thomas Operations at the Port of Dover have "returned to normal" after hundreds of masked protesters disrupted roads in and around the town, at one point blocking access to the port. It is believed most of those involved in the "Stop the Boats" demonstration have now left the area, with many seen boarding a train at Dover Priory station. Earlier, Kent Police said officers were "engaging" with protesters after roads were blocked by protesters but no arrests were made. The demonstration has been described by a local councillor as "co-ordinated" that appeared to be "illegal migration-related". Cllr Chris Vinson, leader of the Conservative group and member for Walmer on Dover District Council, said the demonstrators did not appear to have placards or banners. He said: "Overnight, clearly what appears to be several hundred masked men wearing black clothing and balaclavas seem to have co-ordinated and loaded into rental vans and then descended on roads leading in and out of Dover with the intent to block them, and that’s what they’ve successfully done, and it’s brought the town to a standstill." He added: "Having the path of your vehicle blocked by men wearing black paramilitary gear and balaclavas is extremely intimidating, especially when it's not clear why they're there, and the police weren't aware and so haven’t been able to warn people in advance and make sure that they are made to feel safe." A group was later seen marching through the town and chanting "whose streets? our streets!" and "stop the boats", as dozens of police officers followed. Some protesters were then seen at Dover Priory station at around midday boarding a train. Port of Dover said there was an "ongoing public order incident" Credit: NoseyMan Productions / Mark Thomas The Port of Dover, the UK's busiest international ferry and passenger port, confirmed in a statement on X that previous disruption this morning affecting "all routes" has now ended. It said: "Port approach roads are now free flowing. If you experienced delays or missed your booked sailing, Irish Ferries, DFDS and P&O Ferries will get you on next available sailing." They added that those who miss their departure will be offered the next available crossing. Rail operator Southeastern reshared a Port of Dover travel update on X, adding: "If you’re delayed into the UK and miss your booked train, you can use the next available at no extra cost." Mike Tapp, the Labour MP for Dover and Deal, criticised the masked men and said he was in contact with the police. Writing on Facebook, he said: "I am fed up with idiots coming to Dover to cause disruption. I bet if you asked any one of those 'protesters' they wouldn’t know small boat crossing are down by 40% and we are working hard to fix the mess. "Go home, enjoy your weekend/get a job." Protesters blocked roads in Dover as one councillor described the disruption as 'intimidating' Credit: NoseyMan Productions / Mark Thomas The Government has condemned the actions of masked protesters who have caused disruption at the port of Dover on Saturday. A Government spokesperson said: "The right to peaceful protest is fundamental to our democracy, but we condemn the behaviour in Dover and the travel disruption it has caused. "We appreciate the frustration of those who have been impacted today. "Access to the port is now restored and traffic is flowing. Those travelling to the port are advised to allow for extra travel time and to follow guidance from providers. "We thank policing partners and travel providers who we continue to work with to ensure the safety of passengers and the wider community." Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...