STRONG winds whipping along the coast today forced the closure of Britain’s biggest container terminal.

Officials at the Port of Felixstowe said wind speeds had been recorded at more than 45mph, exceeding operational limits and making it too dangerous for quayside cranes to work.

“As a result both rail and yard operations have been affected. For the safety of all port users we are currently restricting access to operational areas,” said a port spokesman.

Vehicles are being marshalled on site and will be processed through to operational areas as soon as it is safe to do so.

There were likely to be some delays to hauliers and lorry drivers were being asked to consider re-scheduling their arrivals.