Warning to pet owners after dog falls down cliff

A specialist urban search and rescue team was called to the scene

A fire service has warned dog owners to keep their pets on leads in "dangerous areas" after a dog fell off the edge of a cliff.

Dotty, a springer spaniel, had to be rescued by firefighters in Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex.

She had fallen down the cliff and was unable to get back up due to her injuries.

A specialist team from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service used ropes to lower themselves down the cliff and Dotty was "left in the care of a vet", the fire service said.

The incident happened on Thursday afternoon.

Crew manager Antony Clement added: "Crews worked quickly to rescue Dotty safely and we were glad to reunite her with her owner.

"If you’re a dog owner, please take care when walking near cliffs, keep yourself and your dog away from dangerous areas and keep your dog on a lead."