Part of a cliff has collapsed at a west Dorset beach.

Tonnes of rock have fallen onto the beach at Seatown.

It prompts a fresh warning about the dangers of the coast. 

While rockfalls are a natural part of the erosion process, they have been happening frequently in recent times - and while warning signs are in place at various locations, people have been seen taking unnecessary risks. 

Just last week, despite part of the coast path being closed for health and safety reasons, a beachgoer snapped a photo of people climbing over a rockfall at East Beach, West Bay. 

(Image: Rosie Barfoot)

After taking an open top bus to the beach, Rosie Barfoot, from Stratton near Dorchester, said: "I was walking along the beach and I saw one runner ignore the closed pathway sign, and a woman scrabbling around the rocks below. 

"I just thought to myself that people are putting their lives at risk. How could anyone be that thoughtless? Maybe a bigger sign is needed warning people to stay away."

Just days earlier, a camper precariously pitched up a tent on top of East Cliff.

(Image: West Bay Photography)

In early June, a public footpath at West Bay, just off Station Road, and a footpath at Burton Bradstock were temporarily closed for health and safety reasons.

In August last year, beachgoers had a lucky escape when a cliff gave way just yards away. Shocking footage was captured of the near-miss which showed people fleeing the danger -yet others could be seen heading in the direction of the rockfall after it fell.

Advice is:

  • Do not take unnecessary risks; stay away from cliff top edges and also the bases of cliffs – rock falls can happen at any time
  • Do not climb or walk over landslide or rock fall debris, especially after wet weather
  • Always pay attention to warning signs; they are there to advise you on how to stay safe