Warning over Weymouth Jurassic Coast cliff crack

Walkers are being warned about a large crack which has appeared in cliffs near Weymouth on the Dorset coast.

Dorset County Council says the section of coast between Bowleaze Cove and Redcliff Point in Preston near Weymouth is currently active - and has moved around a metre since Friday 8 April.

A footpath on the seaward side of the crack has been closed, but the South West Coast Path is unaffected. Just one section of the path runs alongside a large crack, and it's clearly visible.

Dr Sam Rose, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site team manager, said:“This is a relatively common occurrence at this location – and erosion is what our coastline is all about."

Agencies are monitoring the ground surrounding the crack, and the County Council have issued the following advice:

• Always stay away from the cliffs (top and bottom ) – landslides and rock falls are more likely to happen after heavy rainfall or storms but can, and do, happen anytime

• Mud flows may extend across the beaches – be alert; they can look deceptively like the beach itself

• Never ignore a warning sign – they are there for your safety

• Check tide times before you set off on a beach walk or fossil hunting adventure to avoid being cut off