A convoy of aid heading to Calais has been stopped at the Port of Dover by French authorities.

The convoy, believed to have consisted of 250 vehicles, was intending to take supplies to migrants in France.

Kent Police confirmed the group had been refused entry at about 2pm today.

A police spokesman said: "We have received notification from the French authorities that they have taken a decision to refuse the convoy entry to France.

"No agency within the United Kingdom has any grounds to challenge this decision. The refusal of entry to France is a matter for the French authorities.

"We are working with partner agencies to provide a response to minimise any disruption to the community, businesses and the public."

The refusal of entry sparked a protest among the groups.

Steve Wilkins, from Medway Trade Unions Council, was part of the 250 vehicle convoy that planned to take aid to migrants in France.

He said: “The problem was that the French authorities decided they weren’t going to let us through despite the fact this has been planned for months and it was something they were aware of.

“The whole point was to travel to Calais and deliver aid.

“We got to the ferry port and headed up to the lanes that was just to keep us there. We weren’t going to be processed.

“We demonstrated in front of the French barriers at Dover and eventually we decided to drive to the French Embassy in London and left some aid there.

“We will definitely be trying again because the situation in Calais is appalling and is getting worse and worse.

“It’s disappointing as it took a long time to get it all together.”

The Port of Dover tweeted: "French Border controls protest now ended. The Port of Dover apologises for temporary disruption - will get you on your way as quickly as poss."