Couple cut off by tide while trying to rescue dog

The steps at Hope Gap have been closed for a number of years due to cliff erosion

A couple had to be rescued by the RNLI after getting cut off by the tide while trying to save their pet dog in East Sussex.

The pair had climbed down a cliff at Hope Gap beach, near Cuckmere Haven, on Saturday after their dog fell on to the beach below.

But all three soon found themselves cut off by the incoming tide and trapped at the base of the cliff.

A passing vessel saw the group in trouble and contacted the coastguard, who rescued them alongside an RNLI team from Newhaven.

A spokesperson for the coastguard said: "Always keep your dog on a lead when visiting the coast.

"They are easily distracted by smells and sounds which could lead them to fall from the cliff edge.

"If your dog does get into trouble at the coast, do not attempt to rescue them yourself. Instead, stay in a safe place so coastguard rescue teams can locate you."

The coastguard can be contacted by calling 999.