Unexpected French worker strikes cause major disruption for Eurotunnel and Eurostar passengers
Thousands of travellers had their Christmas holiday plans thrown into jeopardy after an unexpected strike by French workers at Eurotunnel today (Thursday 21 December).
Services were unable run through the undersea link between England and Europe for much of the day with trains being held.
However, LeShuttle Services will resume this evening after Eurotunnel management and trade union representatives reached an agreement.
Eurotunnel said it welcomes the agreement and apologised to all LeShuttle customers as well as Eurostar passengers and rail freight operators whose traffic has been impacted by this strike.
Earlier today, all trains due to depart or arrive at London St Pancras were cancelled - from 10:30 right up until 19:10 this evening.
Eurotunnel told ITV News customers were offered alternative travel arrangements via inter availability agreements with the ferry operators.
The M20 coastbound carriageway between Junctions 8 and 9 has been temporarily closed due to the suspension of Eurotunnel services at the Channel Tunnel, Kent Police has announced.
It is to allow freight heading for Europe to queue on the empty section of motorway, in order to keep any disruption to Kent’s wider road network to a minimum.
All EU-bound freight are being told to use the M20 - all other traffic must follow the signed diversions.
What to do if you're affected by the Eurotunnel strikes?
Exchange your booking for free to travel at a different date, in the same travel class.
Cancel your booking and claim an e-voucher. You will have 12 months from the date of your cancelled train to redeem it on eurostar.com
Cancel your booking and get a refund. You’ll receive a refund for the value of your ticket, but not for any booking or exchange fees.