People are being warned to stay safe on the coast after a dramatic day for coastguard rescue services in Dorset.

The warning follows a spate of incidents on Sunday afternoon in which coastguard teams were called to four separate incidents in the Durdle Door and Lulworth area within just a matter of hours.

In one incident, a man fell 50ft from a cliff and had to be airlifted to hospital after suffering a potential broken ankle and chest injuries. 

Another man was airlifted after complaining of chest pains after swimming in the sea. Coastguards also attended two others who had suffered injuries near the cliffs. Crews had to hold back crowds on the packed beach during their busy afternoon. 

Now, locals and visitors are warned to stay safe at the Jurassic Coast beauty spot. 

Senior Coastal Operations Officer for HM Coastguard in Dorset Rob Sansom said: “It’s about using common sense and taking note of the warning signs that are around, and there are warnings around the Purbeck area. 

“Choose the right footwear for the path you are going down. It isn’t an easy climb around Durdle Door. 

“We always recommended swimming at a lifeguarded beach if possible. If you do want to go swimming it’s about knowing that state of the sea and the weather forecast."

He added: “At the moment when we get some good weather, people are wanting to take photos for social media, but don’t put yourself at risk to get that special photo. 

“The coastguards are all volunteers, and they gave up five or six hours of their afternoon to help people that needed it. They are not paid, but they give up their time to save lives.”

Durdle Door, which lies in the Lulworth Estate area, is an extremely popular visitor attraction during the summer. 

James Weld, of the Lulworth Estate, said: “The Estate takes the safety of the many thousands of visitors who visit Lulworth and the surrounding areas very seriously.

“The stunning natural coastline can be dangerous if not treated with the respect it deserves. We have many signs in place, across Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, warning visitors of the dangers of the cliffs, and beach wardens in place to offer advice on coastal safety to visitors. 

“Our thanks go out to the local coastguard teams, Lulworth first responders and emergency services for their invaluable assistance on a very busy day. We wish all involved a speedy recovery.”