I think the UK is seen as the Holy Grail. Many W Africans I've spoken to, in francophone countries, nevertheless see UK as the one and only place they'd wish to reach. Inhabitants of ex-French colonies, where one would have thought France would be their destination, imagine that in UK (not France) life is sheer Paradise.

Our neighbour drives a big lorry to Calais and onwards across Europe. On his return, he sees loads of African migrants trying to slink on board lorry trailers and under chassis etc. to get to the UK. They've camped in France near the crossing for months/years, but still they try to come here clandestinely.

He says all the drivers keep an eye out and warn each other if potential 'passengers' are around. A bit scary I should think!