Easter visitors warned of unstable cliffs

Visitors to the coast over the Easter weekend have been urged to stay safe around the cliffs.

East Sussex County Council says thousands of tonnes of chalk falls from the cliffs every year, from the edge of Eastbourne, past Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters and Seaford Head.

It said despite warnings, people often stood near the edge to look at the beach below or to take a picture, and walked along the beach close to the base of the cliffs.

"Chalk cliffs are extremely unstable and can fall at any time, without warning. There are many overhangs and cracks along East Sussex's cliffs that visitors may not be able to see, and often people underestimate the risks they are taking," the council said.

As well as staying away from cliff edges, visitors are also urged to stay away from the base of cliffs and to be aware of tide times to avoid getting cut off.

A National Trust spokesperson said: "It isn't safe to sit or stand close to the edge or base of the cliffs as they may be unstable or undercut in places and fall without warning."

The only set of steps for accessing the beach at Birling Gap were closed in January after the surrounding cliffs collapsed, stranding nine people and two dogs.

The steps are expected to reopen by 2 May.

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