Beach closed after cliff crumbles

Police and coastguard today closed an Isle of Wight beach to the public after a ‘‘significant’’ cliff fall.

A 10ft long stretch of cliff at Shanklin Chine, on the Isle of Wight, fell down onto the beach near to where walkers were passing by.

No-one was hurt.

The Coastguard helicopter surveyed the area and reported large cracks on the cliffs. Other smaller falls have also taken place.

Hampshire police have closed the area while emergency planners decide what to do about the unstable cliffs.

Solent Coastguard Watch Manager Bob Knox said: ‘‘People are advised to stay well clear of the area.’’

The island has been suffering from falls after last Winter’s heavy rain caused weakness in the chalk cliffs.

In March this year six people were injured after a 6,000 tonne mudslide hit a pub and block of flats near the same location in Shanklin.