A two-hour window as protesters allow some yachts to leave Cherbourg

There are reports from Cherbourg that the blockade, which has been in place for a week, was temporarily lifted to allow some yachts to leave yesterday evening.

Around 10 yachts left the Normandy port in bad weather, which left some to seek anchorages outside the port, according to the BBC and the Guardian online.

This year’s protest is a repeat of November’s industrial action in response to fuel-price rises by French fishermen. Militant workers have blockaded port and harbour entrances using underwater cables and chains.

Some yachtsmen report having lit flares hurled at them and being rammed by fishing boats, although others have accepted the action stoically and have not been abused.

There is no word on when the blockades will be lifted.

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