Birling Gap cliff collapse visitors warned stay away from edge

A series of cliff collapses at Birling Gap in East Sussex has prompted a warning to visitors to keep away from the edge.

More tourists are expected this weekend because of the warm weather and the hope of seeing further erosion.

On Tuesday, the high tide caused a severe fall in the cliffs after a 30ft crack appeared, resulting in a row of cottages ending up closer to the edge.

The cliffs have already suffered seven years' worth of erosion, since January.

Lifeboat rescues

The coastguard has also reminded visitors there is currently no access to Birling Gap via the steps from the beach at the Seven Sisters Country Park.

Two people had to be rescued by lifeboat on consecutive days earlier in the week after becoming cut off by the incoming tide.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency urged walkers to take note of the warning signs in place.

A spokesman said: "Some sections of the coast are particularly vulnerable to cliff falls and landslips.

"We are advising the public to take great care when walking on cliff paths or along beaches."