VISITORS to East Sussex are being urged to stay safe as they enjoy the area’s spectacular coastline.

As the weather improves and visitor numbers to the area increase, the county council is reminding people of the risks the spectacular but unstable cliffs can pose, as well as the dangers to beach walkers who risk getting cut off by the tide.

The iconic white cliffs are very popular with visitors but they are extremely unstable and can give way at any time with no warning.

Each year thousands of tonnes of chalk fall from the cliffs and despite the dangers, visitors regularly stand too close to the edge of the cliffs, or walk or sit at the cliff base when on the beach.

Councillor Claire Dowling, cabinet member at East Sussex County Council, said: “The cliffs contain many overhangs and cracks that visitors may not be able to see, as illustrated recently by a large crack in the chalk cliff near Belle Tout lighthouse.

“The cliffs, while beautiful, are extremely unstable and huge quantities of chalk can fall at any time with absolutely no warning.

“We want people to enjoy visiting the stunning East Sussex coast but to do so safely and urge them to stay back from the cliff edges and bases.”

Beach walkers are also reminded to check the tide times before heading out to make sure they are not cut off by the incoming tide, or forced to walk too close to the base of the cliffs to avoid the rising sea water.

People walking along the beach are also reminded to wear appropriate clothing and to let someone know where they are going and when they will be back.

Cllr Dowling continued: “Incidents of walkers being stranded on the beach after being cut off by the tide happen more frequently than people realise.

“Visitors can check the tide times before setting out at www.tidetimes.org.uk.”

The safety messages are part of an ongoing joint campaign being promoted by the county council, HM Coastguard, The National Trust, South Downs National Park Authority, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Seaford Town Council, Wealden District Council, Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council.

If visitors see anyone in danger or witness someone who has fallen, they are urged to call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard and not attempt to rescue them.

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