French farmers are expected to try and cross the Loire river in order to enter Paris as they protest low pay and environmental regulations.

A tractor convoy of some 700 farmers intends to blockade Rungis, home to the world’s largest fresh food market, and enter the capital.

Protesters said they intend to “dodge past police like in a rugby game” after authorities indicated they should stay away from large cities.

Gérald Darmanin, the French interior minister, insisted he will not let the farmers “overrun red lines” and has stationed armoured vehicles near Rungis.

Hundreds of tractors blocked major roads leading into Paris this week in what one farmer claimed was an attempt to “starve Parisians”.

Follow the latest updates below, and join in the conversation in the comments.