VISITORS to the coast are being urged to stay safe during the summer.

People are being asked to use caution when walking on the chalk cliffs.

East Sussex County Council issued the warning after an increase in cases where people have stood on the fragile cliff edges – despite signs urging against it.

Councillor Claire Dowling, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for transport and environment, said: “Chalk cliffs are extremely unstable and can fall at any time, without warning.

“In recent years we have seen a significant number of cliff falls, including 50,000 tonnes from the cliff at Seaford Head, and frequent falls along the coast between Holywell in Eastbourne, Beachy Head, Belle Tout, Birling Gap and Cuckmere Haven.

“Please enjoy the cliffs safely.”