Dozens of immigrants risked death in a bid to enter Kent in a refrigerated lorry.

Border Force officials caught 48 stowaways in the back of the lorry waiting to board a shuttle to Folkestone at around 9pm on Tuesday night.

The lorry, which was empty apart from the Albanian nationals, was scheduled to drive to a location in Dover to pick up a load for delivery to France.

It had no external lock or seal when it was checked by Border Force officers in Coquelles, France. The refrigeration unit was not turned on.

The stowaways, 41 male and seven female, all said to be in good health, were handed over to the French authorities. Three of the group were believed to be youngsters.

"This case demonstrates the complete lack of regard the organised criminals involved in people smuggling have for the individuals concerned" - Dave Hutchinson

The Romanian lorry driver has been arrested by the French border police.

Dave Hutchinson, Border Force deputy director for South East & Europe, said: "The dangers of using refrigerated lorries and sealed tankers in this way are self evident.

"The consequences are potentially fatal.

"This case demonstrates the complete lack of regard the organised criminals involved in people smuggling have for the individuals concerned.

"It is even more alarming given that some of those found were minors."