In the small northern French town of Grand-Fort-Philippe, tensions have escalated as clashes between migrants seeking to cross the English Channel and French police have intensified.

Once a place where locals and migrants coexisted with polite interactions, the town is now facing increased violence.

The situation worsened as French authorities ramped up efforts to curb illegal migration after a deal with the UK, the Express has reported.

Migrants are now exploring alternative routes, turning the town into a new hub for launching boats to Britain, leading to concerns among residents about the rising violence.

Written by B.C. Begley