(BBC) The number of migrants reaching the UK by boat was four times greater in 2020 than 2019, official figures show.
At least 8,400 people made the crossing in 2020 while last year 1,844 did.
Despite freezing temperatures, 33 migrants reached the UK in four boats on Thursday morning. Another 23 followed in the afternoon.
The totals, based on a running tally of Home Office figures, account for any migrants intercepted in the Channel or held by officials upon arrival.
As well as the 33 who made the trip in dinghies on Thursday, a further 17 were prevented from making the crossing by French authorities.
