Drivers are being warned the QE2 Bridge will be closed for an extended period tonight.

The bridge will be closed between 8pm and 10am with road users directed to use the east bore of the Dartford Tunnel to continue their journey.

The work is part of the scheme to replace expansion joints on the bridge which allow the structure to expand and contract with changes in temperature.

The extended closure will allow for the installation of large bridge joints which takes longer than the standard overnight closure.

The closure was originally scheduled for Saturday May 3 however as work is progressing well ahead of schedule, the closure has been brought forward.

For more information, visit highways.gov.uk