Tonnes of rock has fallen from the cliffs at West Bay.

The huge rockfall was discovered on East Beach on Monday morning. 

 Local photographer Daryl Gill, of West Bay Photography, captured a photo of the aftermath of the rockfall, saying: “Another large cliff fall at West Bay. It’s looking very unstable, I'd be surprised if more didn't come down.”

Dorset Echo: Rockfall at West BayRockfall at West Bay (Image: West Bay photography)

The last substantial rockfall at West Bay took place in the same location in December.

Today, Dorset Council said: "There’s been three rock falls around the West Bay area that have blocked access along the beach.

"Rockfalls and landslips can happen at any time. If you are out on the coast, please stay safe by taking notice of warning signs and keep to existing paths. Stay away from the edge and the base of cliffs.

"The coastal path is still accessible and presently safe to use. We will provide any updates we receive."

The council has previously advised visitors to the coast to take notice of warning signs and not to climb over fresh falls because they can still be unstable.

“Care should always be taken on the coast by not walking close to the edge of cliffs or close to the bottom of them," a spokesperson said.

Dorset Echo: Rockfall at West BayRockfall at West Bay (Image: West Bay Photography)

In the past, geologist Sam Scriven said that the location of West Bay’s cliffs means they face the ‘full force’ of any storm and ‘bear the brunt’ of bad weather.

He said people should 'respect the landscape and use common sense at the beach.'

“People think of the British seaside as a lovely, safe, family place but the beach is part of the wilderness and nature is doing its thing there," he said.

"People need to be respectful of that. We can’t close off the beach but people need to be aware of the risks. They are beautiful cliffs and people like to marvel at them but respect them as you would the sea and act responsibly.”

Dorset Echo: Rockfall at West BayRockfall at West Bay (Image: West Bay photography)

Dorset Council have issued the following advice about rock falls:

1. Stay away from the edge of the cliff top - admire the view from a safe distance

2. Stay away from the base of cliffs: rock falls and landslides can happen at any time. If you are under a rock fall, the likelihood is you will die

3. Pay attention to warning signs – they are there for your safety

4. Check tide times before you set off to avoid being cut off by incoming tides

5. Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edge