Urgent travel warning for popular tourist attraction – steps you must follow to stay safe
BRITS have been given an urgent travel warning over a popular tourist attraction – here’s how to stay safe.
Visitors have been labelled “stupid” for defying safety measures to take selfies in the beauty spot.
The cliffs at Seaford Head in East Sussex are as dangerous as they are picturesque as they are prone to rock falls that could see the ground crumble beneath tourists’ feet.
One picture from the cliffs shows a group of people taking a photo, with one standing unsettlingly near the edge with what seems to be a large crack in the rock beneath her.
Philip Carter, the operations manager on the site, who captured the moment told The Mirror: “Whilst down there I looked up at the cliffs and I noticed four people at the top.
“One of those, a young woman, was really close to the edge and I thought how could they be so stupid to risk their lives for a photograph.”
The cliffs have been weakened over the years by coastal erosion and frequently see chalk and rocks falling into the sea below.
There is a sign set back from the cliff edge reading “Do Not Pass” in large letters, warning people not to advance further.
Councillor Claire Dowling, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for transport and environment, added: “We are incredibly lucky to have such a beautiful coastline in East Sussex, which attracts visitors from far and wide.
“But the cliffs are extremely unstable and prone to regular chalk falls, putting visitors at risk if they don’t take care when on top of the cliffs or on the beach below.
“We want people to be able to come to East Sussex and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, but to do so safely.”
HM Coastguard said they did not comment on individual cases but issued advice for cliff walkers on how to stay safe.
A spokesperson for the service said: “His Majesty’s Coastguard advises the public to take extra care when walking near or along cliffs in coastal areas.
“Enjoy your visit to the coast but please also respect the dangers.
“Be careful when walking on cliff-top paths or down on the beach if you are walking below cliffs.
“Give the cliffs a wide berth and take note of any warning signs in place.
“Do not get yourself too close to cliff edges, as they could be unstable and crumble away under your feet.”
In the event of a fall or other coastal emergency, people are advised to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.