PEOPLE are being advised to stay away from large waves and be careful on beaches and seafronts after a flood warning was issued for the Dorset coast.

The Dorset coast has been battered with strong winds and high tides, leading the Environment Agency to impose a flood warning for the west coast of Dorset yesterday evening (Saturday, October 31).

This area covers the coastline from Lyme Regis to Portland, including key beaches such as West Bay, Burton Bradstock, Cogdean Beach and Chesil Beach.

A spokesman for Environment Agency warned that flooding could possibly occur and advised members of the public to stay safe on the area's beaches and seafronts.

He said: "Waves are forecast to overtop sea defences with sea spray expected as a result of high tides and strong winds for tomorrow morning and evening tides. High water is forecast at 6:30am on Sunday morning and 7:30pm on Sunday evening.

"The wind strength is Force 7 from the south west. Flooding to roads is expected and may apply two to four hours either side of the high tides.

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Seatown, West Bay, Bothenhampton, Burton Freshwater, Burton Bradstock, Cogdean Beach, Chesil Beach, West Fleet, East Fleet and Chiswell. Other locations along the coast may also be affected.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Please stay away from large waves and be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths and roads."