Aerial photos have captured the sheer size of a cliff collapse at West Bay.

Pictures, taken by Simon Willmott, show the aftermath of the cliff fall at East Beach on Tuesday, when part of the cliff suddenly gave way and 1,000 tonnes of rock toppled on to the beach.

And dramatic footage, taken by The Environment Agency, shows the shocking moment the cliff collapsed without warning.

Experts have warned there is a heightened risk of more rockfalls along the coastline and cliff fall highlighted the ‘dynamic and potentially hazardous nature’ of the cliffs.

An assessment carried out the following day by the Jurassic Coast Trust’s geological expert found the section of cliff is currently in a condition in which it is more susceptible to falls, especially following heavy rain and strong wind.

Members of the public have been warned not to walk anywhere near the rockfall or the cliffs as the next rockfall could happen at any time - and the stormy winter weather has further increased the likelihood.

Sam Scriven, programme manager for heritage and conservation at the Jurassic Coast Trust, who carried out the assessment, said: “As with previous falls, there appears to be a relationship between more severe weather and this particular cliff failure; in this case heavy rain and a strong wind. I don’t think there can be any doubt that this section of cliff in general is currently in a condition where it is more susceptible to falls.

“My view is that we are experiencing an active period during a long cyclic pattern of erosion and there are many other parts of the cliff face that appear to be similarly vulnerable.

"West Bay is a stunning part of the Jurassic Coast and a popular place to visit. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the area without putting yourself in danger."

Advice is to:

  • Stay away from the edge of cliffs - admire the view from a safe distance. There are fantastic views from the pier in West Bay
  • Never lie or sit under the cliffs - there is very little chance of survival if caught under a rockfall
  • Always take note of warning signs – they are there because the dangers are real
  • Check tide times before you set off- avoid being cut off by incoming tides
  • Be aware of mud flows
  • Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edge

Ken Buchan, Dorset County Council’s Coast and Countryside service manager, said: “The Jurassic Coast is a wonderful place to visit, but we urge people to use common sense and caution – stay away from the edge and base of cliffs and always pay attention to warning signs and safety messages.”

The Environment Agency has identified West Bay as an area which requires improvements to its coastal defences and a multi-million pound improvement began at the start of the month.

A spokesman for the agency said: “The Jurassic Coast is a popular destination for walkers and fossil hunters. Foul weather can cause rock fall from the cliffs so avoid these areas. Heavy rainfall contributes to cliff sumping 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.”

COLLAPSE: Part of the cliff at East Beach, West Bay Video: THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

For more information, visit jurassiccoast.org/enjoysafely