Calais calls in the army as port staff go on strike

THE French army were drafted in to patrol the port of Calais and inspect vehicles travelling to Britain yesterday.

Soldiers with rifles were seen checking every car, including inside passengers’ suitcases, before vehicles went through the Eurotunnel to Folkestone.

The stringent checks only worsened the long delays and traffic jams snarling up for miles caused by customs staff striking for a second day.

It is understood employees are working-to-rule to show ‘what will happen’ when the UK leaves the EU later this month.

One passenger said drivers were delayed for about 30 minutes before even reaching customs. The increased security follows reports that migrants are becoming more desperate to reach Britain before March 29. Last Saturday, up to 100 stormed a UK-bound ferry at the port.

Fears over Brexit have revived ‘the booze cruise’ as Brits head to Calais to stock up on alcohol. Sales at some retailers have risen by half in the past month.