Sidmouth cliff falls: Everything you need to know

Visitors to Sidmouth beach may have witnessed the recent spate of cliff falls; with large segments of red rock cracking off in the dry heat causing big dust clouds.

These potentially deadly occurrences are alarming for those who use the beach, with some photos showing sunbathers close to where part of the cliff edge has broken off.

We got in touch with East Devon District Council to find out all the information available on cliff erosion in Sidmouth.

A spokesperson explained: "Cliff falls are a natural and unpredictable occurrence along the East Devon coast.

"This is because the rock from which the cliffs are formed is soft and therefore prone to rock falls and landslides, which can happen at any time, although periods of heavy rainfall such as the wettest February on record and now a long dry period, can cause an increase rate of falls.

"The Sidmouth and East Beach Management Plan (BMP) scheme aims to reduce the risk of flooding to Sidmouth by maintaining the standard of defences along Sidmouth Beach, and to reduce the rate of erosion to the cliffs to the East of the town - and therefore the rate of exposure of the East side of Sidmouth to coastal conditions.

"It cannot, however, stop cliff falls. In fact, many of the recent cliff falls are beyond the area the BMP will protect, occurring further East on National Trust land.

"It is not physically possible to stop the public entering East Beach below the cliffs, however to gain access they must pass several warning signs advising them of the danger and lack of an alternate exit point.

East Devon's cliffs, their geology and safety messages:

"East Devon's cliffs are a key part of the scenery that attracts visitors to the area, however the cliffs pose a very real danger and caution must be exercised when visiting them.

"Rock falls and landslides are unpredictable events, occurring without warning, and can cause serious injury or death.

"Warning signs can be found in areas managed by us. The absence of a sign does not indicate there is no risk and you should always take care around the cliffs of East Devon as all are made of soft rock and pose a cliff fall danger.

"Heavy rainfall can trigger cliff falls, however cliff falls are a normal occurrence along the East Devon coastline.

"It is good practice when on the beach to stay well clear of the cliff base and to keep an eye out for fresh fall material or water running down the cliffs, which may indicate an area that is weakened and loose. If in doubt, don't walk under or near the cliffs.

"The Coastguard advises that beach users stay at least the height of the cliff away. For example, if a cliff is 20 metres high, a distance of 20 metres should be kept.

"If a cliff fall does occur and you suspect that someone has been injured, call 999 immediately. Do not explore recent cliff falls as there is a risk of further falls. A comprehensive guide to staying safe around beaches and cliffs is available from the Coastguard.

"We complete annual cliff inspections at Beer, Budleigh Salterton, Seaton and Sidmouth. These inspections include removing loose material and additional safety works such as installation of rock netting.

"If you notice a recent cliff fall or any issues with our stabilisation interventions at any of the above locations, please get in touch with our Customer Service Centre.

"While this work aims to reduce the risk of incidents, we cannot guarantee incidents will not occur at these locations. We therefore recommend that where possible, you enjoy the cliffs from a distance and do not climb or sit directly beneath them.

"The recent falls at Sidmouth have occurred both on land owned by East Devon District Council and the National Trust."