A MAJOR rockfall took place near a beach in west Dorset.

The incident saw rocks from the cliff fall away before into a heap on the beach below, while some fell into the sea. 

The fall was discovered on Wednesday, January 18 at East Beach, West Bay near Bridport just days after authorities warned that rockfalls were likely after heavy rainfall across the region. 

The incident happened at around 11 am according to West Bay UK.

Dorset Echo: Another angle of the rockfall. Picture: Dorset CouncilAnother angle of the rockfall. Picture: Dorset Council (Image: Dorset Council)

Paths up to the cliff were closed as the council urged people to stay away from the area. 

In a statement, Dorset Council said: "We've had another big rockfall on East Beach at West Bay. The beach is currently cut off, with no access to Burton Bradstock from West Bay and vice versa. 

"We're investigating access to the coastal path on top too.

"Please stay away and do not attempt to clamber over the pile - you would be putting yourself and others at risk.

"The heavy rain we've had over the last few weeks has made cliffs right along the Jurassic Coast unstable and more prone to rockfalls.

"Do keep away from the base of cliffs and if walking along the top of the cliffs walk well away from the edge."

Dorset Echo: Another angle of the rockfall. Picture: James Loveridge PhotographyAnother angle of the rockfall. Picture: James Loveridge Photography (Image: James Loveridge Photography)

The Jurassic Coast in west Dorset has seen an increased number of rockfalls in recent times.

Last month a rockfall blocked part of the beach on Burton Bradstock prompting a warning from Dorset Council to follow the signs and safety messages that are provided. 

At the time Leo Henley-Lock, National Trust's countryside manager for West Dorset, said: "The coast and cliffs along this stretch of the Jurassic Coast are unstable and naturally liable to landslips and falls at any time without warning.

"We would urge people to take the time to read warning signs in car parks and footpaths and follow their instructions so they can enjoy the coast safely." 

In another rockfall event, there was a significant cliff movement including at Charmouth and near Eype last year.

The latest rockfall incident followed a period of intense rainfall in Dorset which saw roads flooded as havoc was caused across the county. 

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