BRITAIN'S biggest port was closed at lunchtime today as the weather worsened.

BRITAIN'S biggest port was closed at lunchtime today as the weather worsened.

With winds hitting more than 45mph, the gates at Felixstowe were closed and hauliers diverted to parking areas.

A port spokesman said: “We have now stopped work on both quayside and yard areas due to windspeeds exceeding safe limits.

“This is in line with the current weather forecast.

“The gates are currently closed to external haulage, and we will issue an update as soon as further information is available.”

Officials said access was currently restricted in all operational areas. Vehicles were being marshalled on site and will be processed as soon as it is safe to do so.

It was hoped hauliers would delay their arrival.

Operation Stack had not yet been put into effect.