KENT police called off Operation Stack this morning because the overnight build up of lorry traffic they had feared did not materialise.

The M20 was closed yesterday as industrial action sealed the Port of Calais. It was reopened at midnight after six hours and is clear this morning, but motorists have been warned the cones are in place to close it again today should the situation worsen.

The Port of Calais is due to open again at 10pm.

P&O and SeaFrance sailings were suspended yesterday afternoon, with passengers booked on crossings being advised to ring companies before setting off. French transport union workers are protesting over working hours.

The strike comes on top of an accident at a Calais berth, which has seen ferry companies abandon their schedules and traffic disruptions to Kent’s roads.

The Freight Transport Association says the latest 24-hour delay is likely to cost the industry £1m adding to the £10m they say they have lost due to the on-going berthing restrictions in Calais.

A spokeswoman said: “Once again the actions of recalcitrant French workers are set to bring the UK international transport sector to its knees.”