M20 Operation Stack heats up and Coastguard called to help

UK Coastguard is currently assisting Kent Police as Phase 3 of Operation Stack was implemented and temperatures soared throughout the day.


Birling gap, Bexhill, Dungeness, Langdon, Margate and Sheppy Coastguard Rescue Teams are all helping with the distribution of food and water to lorry drivers who are currently queuing on the M20, Kent.


Delays are due to continue and the port of Calais is expected to remain closed until Thursday, due to industrial action.


Tracy Hawke-Treneer, Watch Officer, Dover Coastguard said:


“We are currently helping Kent Police to distribute food and water. As an emergency service we have the capability to respond to major incidents when needed, however this does not impact on our maritime search and rescue response capabilities.


“The teams will be working into the night to make sure that people are receiving food and drinks.


“Work will resume in the early hours of the morning to continue to distribute sustenance as it arrives.”

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