A COCKER spaniel had a miracle escape after falling from cliffs.

The dog, called Ben, was being taken a walk near Beachy Head on Sunday when he fell from the cliffs at Whitbread Hollow.

Eastbourne RNLI was called and the crew raced to his aid.

Miraculously he survived the fall and was returned to his owner.

Later on Sunday evening the crew was called out again after a paddle boarder was said to be in trouble near the town.

After an extensive search the operation was called off. It was presumed to be a false alarm with good intent.

It was a busy weekend for the crew.

Shortly before midnight on Friday the lifeboat was called out after a small yacht was said to be in trouble near the entrance to Sovereign Harbour.

They boarded the vessel and the skipper appeared to be disorientated but refused all offers of assistance. He was encouraged to anchor for the night.

On Saturday the lifeboat was called out again to recover a body spotted at the bottom of Beachy Head.