WALKERS are being warned that unstable cliff tops could crumble away from underneath their feet.

The alarming comments come from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) after three people were seen standing just feet away from the sheer rock face at Seaford Head.

Over the years, photos have regularly been taken of people venturing dangerously close to cliff edges along this stretch of coastline, with many dangerous acts captured on camera at nearby Birling Gap and Seven Sisters.

In September, huge fissures appeared in the cliff top at Birling Gap as large chunks of rock threatened to tear away and plummet on to the beach below.

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Yet, despite the danger of this situation, tourists were spotted posing for photos with their legs extending on to the separating sediment.

Now, the MCA is calling for people to stop taking unnecessary risks.

A spokesman for the srvice said: ““Her Majesty’s coastguard advises the public to take extra care when walking near or along cliffs in coastal areas.

“Enjoy your visit to the coast but please also respect the dangers.

“Be careful when walking on cliff top paths or down on the beach if you are walking below cliffs.

“Give the cliffs a wide berth and take note of any warning signs in place.

“Do not get yourself too close to cliff edges, as they could be unstable and crumble away under your feet.

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“Some sections of the UK coastline are particularly vulnerable to cliff cracks, cliff falls and landslips and these tend to be more frequent after heavy rain which has fallen on already saturated land.

“In a coastal emergency dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

Last month, the MCA joined forces with the RNLI to launch a Winter Coastal Safety Campaign.

The scheme served to remind beach-goers that “the coast and sea can be incredibly dangerous places – from rough winter seas to changing tides and unstable and eroding clifftop edges”.

It urged people to familiarise themselves with an area before visiting by reading local safety information, and to have both a fully charged mobile phone and appropriate footwear when they set off on any coastal adventures.

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The MCA spokesman said: “Always let people know when you’ll be back home too and don’t be tempted to take a risky photo by a cliff edge or large waves for social media, it could be the last moment you ever capture.

“Open spaces are ideal for dog walking but please keep your furry friends on a lead and if your pet does get into danger, do not attempt to self-rescue your animal or enter the water after your pet.”