Drivers heading for the Port of Dover were being diverted off the M20, causing gridlock in Folkestone.

It came amid warnings of “extreme” delays at the border due to bottlenecks of holiday traffic.

Earlier this afternoon, Google Maps showed traffic queueing from the slip road at junction 12 of the M20, all the way along Cheriton High Street.

Churchill Avenue in Folkestone was gridlocked, with motorists turning off at the junction 13 exit, due to the Roundhill Tunnel being shut.

Kent County Council Highways recently tweeted the tunnel has now reopened

“The M20 has now been re-opened coastbound at junction 13 and traffic flowing through Roundhill Tunnel again,” a tweet read.

Residents commented on the delays, saying it was a “nightmare” with heavy traffic throughout Folkestone.

“Also the bypass and roundabout at the top of Blackbull Road and roundabout at Cheriton is at a standstill,” one motorist said.

“Tunnel is indeed closed towards Dover. Avoid!”

Another person said: “A lorry has also broken down on the inside lane near to the shopping centre, it's a nightmare.”

Dover residents also reported seeing lorries “pouring down” roads as they avoided the motorway.

They said: “Anyone know why HGVs are pouring down Folkestone Road?”

Earlier this week, bosses at the Port of Dover urged drivers to stick to main routes including the A2 and A20 and not to arrive more than three hours before their sailing.

This advice was issued as “bottlenecks” of traffic are expected as the summer holidays begin.