Two dead as record 820 migrants cross in a day

A RECORD 820 migrants crossed the English Channel yesterday as the death toll continued to rise.

- By Michael Knowles Home Affairs Editor

Sir Keir Starmer's pledge to “smash the gangs” was left in tatters as people smugglers carried on making a mockery of the borders.

It is the first time more than 800 asylum seekers have crossed the Channel in a single day this year.

The alarming figure came as two migrants died attempting the journey in a small boat packed with almost 80 people — taking the death toll for 2025 to at least 17.

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