A FEMALE climber has been seriously injured after falling about 40ft from cliffs near Anvil Point, Swanage.

The woman, who was in a group with other climbers, suffered 'significant trauma' and head and leg injuries in the incident.

She fell onto a rocky ledge below from near the top of the cliffs.

The climber was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital by coastguard helicopter.

The incident happened at 3.30pm at the Cattle Trough, between Anvil Point and the Western Mile Markers.

Emergency services immediately attended the scene after a 999 call was received by HM Coastguard.

Purbeck officers from Dorset Police said she had been climbing in an area known locally as 'Cattle Troughs'.

Dorset Police, Swanage coastguard team, the St Alban's coastguard team and both Swanage RNLI lifeboats were involved in the rescue.

Officers utilised their specialist off road vehicle to convey emergency crews and equipment to the cliff top which was some distance away from any road.

Swanage RNLI delivered emergency first aid to the woman.

The woman's injuries are not believed to be life threatening, but Purbeck officers said she sustained significant trauma.

The operation was concluded at 7.30pm.