NEARLY two million tonnes of cargo a year is now being handled by Ramsgate New Port.

Latest figures from the Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions show Ramsgate is now the 32nd largest out of 360 cargo handling ports in the country.

Last year, the port handled 0.35 per cent of the UK tonnage, while Dover handled 3.37 per cent and the Medway Ports handled 2.63 per cent.

Cllr Richard Nicholson, leader of Thanet District Council, said: "This is great news for Ramsgate New Port and demonstrates the significant role our port operations are making towards the regeneration of south east Kent.

"The indications are of continuing growth following a sharp upturn in traffic movements through south east ports during the first five months of 2002."