This is the nail-biting moment a group of walkers had a lucky escape when the cliff they were walking underneath crumbled above them.

Hikers and beach goers are now being urged to stay away from East Cliff in West Bay, Dorset, after 1,000 tonnes of rock fell on to the beach below.

The shocking video shows the dramatic moment the cliff gave way, sending huge plumes of dust into the air as rocks hit the ground, with at least two people stood just inches away.

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These walkers were just seconds from death after a cliff fall in Dorset (Picture: Environment Agency/SWNS)

The beauty spot is a haven for fossil hunters who often take advantage of the softer rock to find prehistoric treasures.




The area has more recently been made famous through the ITV series Broadchurch, which films there.

Corrections & Clarifications

However, as the video shows, rain and other rough weather can make the cliffs susceptible to collapse.

The footage was captured on a webcam video operated by Environment Agency Wessex on Tuesday afternoon.

A spokesperson for the agency said: ‘Foul weather can cause rock fall from the cliffs so avoid these areas.

Police confirmed nobody was injured in the collapse (Picture: Environment Agency / SWNS)

‘Heavy rainfall contributes to cliff sumping (collapse) because of the extra weight and lubrication.

‘So it might be tempting to look for fossils or inspect the rock fall, but the risk of further collapse can last for a few days.’

The agency has warned people not to attempt to walk along the top of the cliffs or attempt to get up close to the damage.

Corrections and clarifications: ‘Attenborough effect’

It added: ‘It is extremely dangerous to be on or near cliffs when the wind is high and waves are strong.

‘There is no minimum safe distance. Be wise: your life is not worth risking for a walk.’

Dorset police confirmed nobody had been trapped by the falling rocks and there were no injuries reported.

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