General French News | Half term holidaymakers told to expect France travel disruption

Friday, October, 22nd, 2010 at 18.21 by Joseph Jeffries

Britons planning to get away for French holidays during the October half term break should be prepared for widespread travel disruption, the Foreign Office has warned.

France has been severely affected in recent weeks by strikes over pension reforms, with industrial action and protests having a serious impact on the country's transport network.

All forms of transport have been disrupted by the strikes but motorists have been particularly hard hit, as blockades at fuel depots have led to panic buying and fuel shortages across the country.

As a result, Britons travelling to France by car should try to set off with enough fuel to complete their journey. However, they should ask their ferry company or Eurotunnel before bringing extra fuel in cans or containers, as this is forbidden by some operators.

Eurostar trains have been largely unaffected by the protests, but travellers can expect delays and cancellations on connecting trains. Some major airports have been targeted by protesters, and cross-channel ferry ports could also be affected.

The overriding advice from the Foreign Office is to check the travel situation prior to setting off for France, and to be prepared for delays and cancellations at short notice.

Citing a statement on the Foreign Office website, BBC News wrote: 'Wildcat strikes are causing substantial and unpredictable disruption across the country.'

'Before travelling, you should monitor local news reports and stay in touch with your tour operator.'