'Marauding migrants' putting UK lorry drivers in danger, haulage body warns

UK lorry drivers are being put at risk by violent clashes in Calais, according to an industry body.

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) issued the warning after gangs of migrants were involved in multiple brawls on roads approaching the French port and Eurotunnel terminal.

Up to 200 migrants have been involved in the clashes over the past two days.

A number of police officers and migrants have been injured in the incidents, which have involved Afghans and Eritreans.

The prefecture of the Pas-de-Calais region said up to 150 migrants were involved in a fight on Tuesday afternoon.

RHA director of policy Rod McKenzie said: "Our members are terrified and angry. Gangs of marauding migrants, often armed with iron bars, are attacking their vehicles.

"The police are heavily outnumbered and it's clear that they can no longer cope with the ever-increasing numbers trying to make the crossing to the UK."

Mr McKenzie added that some drivers are refusing to make the journey between Calais and Dover, with many hauliers diverting their vehicles via longer routes.

The RHA has a long-running campaign calling for the deployment of the French military in Calais.

Some 7,000 migrants were cleared from a makeshift camp in the city last autumn.