A PHOTOJOURNALIST has warned of the dangers of cliff edges after recent rock falls that tourists seem “shocked” to see pictures of.

Retired aircraft engineer and photographer David Burr regularly takes pictures between Birling Gap and Beachy Head.

He often sees and talks to tourists who he says are “poorly educated” about the dangers of getting too close to the edge.

Tourists have frequently been pictured near the edge in that area – some have even been seen sitting right on the edge to have their picture taken.

Mr Burr, 69, from Broad Oak, near Heathfield, said: “The overhang is getting more prominent.

“The people come from another country and believe they are safe.

“I talk to a lot of people if I am able to.

“I show them pictures and they are shocked.

“You get people on there laying on the edge.

“I get a very good response from the tourists.

“They normally say ‘Oh we did not know’.

“I am concerned. It is dangerous.

“All along that stretch of coast from Beachy Head to Seaford Head is very dangerous.

“The National Trust have been told about it for years and years.

“I asked them about the temporary signs and they were placed there because of rock falls.

“They said to me that there are not as many rock falls at the moment.

“They have said the signage is adequate.”

Three rock falls were seen in Seaford within two days last June, prompting Coastguards to urge people to stay away from cliff edges.

Coastguards warned at the time that the cliffs were extremely unstable due to erosion along that stretch.

A South Korean student fell to her death on June 22 last year while having her picture taken at the top of the cliff just east of Cuckmere Haven.

Hyewon Kim, 23, stumbled and fell over the edge after asking other tourists to take her photograph.

Following her death, East Sussex coroner Alan Craze said he would encourage the National Trust to look at improving fencing and safety warnings on signs along the Seven Sisters.

A National Trust spokesman said: “It can be extremely dangerous to stand near the cliff edge and we advise visitors to act sensibly when visiting the area.

“We have permanent signs in place warning visitors of the danger, based on Health and Safety Executive standards, which use universal symbols as well as wording.

“Messaging on our website warns visitors of the danger of the edge of the cliff.”

Lewes District Council has issued advice about taking notice of warning signs and keeping a safe distance away.

A spokeswoman said: “Sea cliffs are dynamic, they experience erosion constantly from the sea and the weather, consequently they are always changing.

“At some locations there are overhangs or faults in the cliffs that cannot be seen or gauged easily from the cliff tops.

“The signs seek to inform visitors through pictures or clear statements of the risk of falling from the cliffs.

“Local councils and other partners are exploring closer working with key stakeholders, such as bus companies, to ensure that those visiting the area are aware of the potential dangers.

“Being the gateway to the South Downs National Park we have some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, offering wide unspoilt views of the cliffs, downs and sea scape.

“But as with all natural or wild environments it is important to take care and treat the outdoors with respect.

“This applies to everyone, whether simply walking or involved in other leisure pursuits and sports.”

The council has advised the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see anyone in danger or see someone who has fallen.