SECTIONS of the coast path in west Dorset have been closed due to 'severe' erosion and potential danger from cliff falls.

A public footpath at West Bay just off Station Road and a footpath at Burton Bradstock  have been temporarily closed for health and safety reasons.

The closures follow a wet winter with months of heavy rain. 

Dorset Council says the routes Public Footpath W7/18, Burton Bradstock and W1/25, Bridport have been shut to the public. 

"This closure is required for health and safety reasons due to severe erosion and danger from cliff falls," the closure order says.

The temporary closure applies to a distance of approximately 1,200 metres

All pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists will be prohibited from proceeding along Public Footpaths W7/18 and W1/25 from grid reference SY 464 902 to grid reference SY 474 897 a distance of approximately 1200 metres.

Dorset Council made the Temporary Closure Order under Section 14 [1] of the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984, as amended.

Walkers have been told to use an alternative route; Head North/Northeast for approximately 200 metres along Marsh Barn Road until you meet footpath W7/17 at SY 466 904. Follow W7/17 east until you reach SY 478 899.

At this point head Southeast along footpath W7/17 through the holiday park until you meet SY 480 896. From this point follow footpath W7/18 West until you reach SY 474 897

For more information about the closure contact Stuart Semple 01305 224923.

For further information about Rights of Way matters, call Dorset Countryside on 01305 221000.