Warning after quicksand discovered on Lancing beach

Officials confirmed the existence of the sand this morning near Widewater Court, Lancing.

The discovery has prompted the coastal office to issue a statement calling on people to “inform any elder relatives where possible”.

Vistors have been warned away from the beach near Widewater Court, Lancing, after quicksand was discovered

Quicksand usually consists of sand or clay and salt that's become waterlogged.

Objects – or people – can become partially submerged and unable to escape.

The coastal office has urged people to “keep your distance from the section of beach between the beach huts to the Church of the Good Shepherd.

“Especially when walking on the sand below the high water mark,” it added.

Vistors have been warned away from the beach near Widewater Court, Lancing, after quicksand was discovered

Signs are being placed in the surrounding areas by Lancing Parish Council to warn beachgoers of the soft sand.

The Council's Senior Coastal Warden, said: “Although a natural occurrence, we ask that residents keep clear of this section of beach where possible.

“The less mobile members of our community are most vulnerable to the soft sand, so please inform any elder relatives where possible.”

Vistors have been warned away from the beach near Widewater Court, Lancing, after quicksand was discovered

If you’ve discovered some quicksand, ring Worthing Coastal Office on 01903 238977.

In emergency situations please contact the Coastguard on 999.

Studies have found it is impossible to be completely submerged in quicksand, despite the movie trope.