Five people found safe and well after “signifcant” rock fall on the beach near Charmouth

Emergency services rushed to the scene of another major cliff-fall near Charmouth yesterday (Wednesday) evening.

Five people had been seen walking on the beach nearby – despite warnings to keep away – but were located safe and well.

Another group refused to leave the area, however, until spoken to by police.

Coastguards from Lyme Regis and West Bay, their rescue helicopter and Dorset police were all scrambled to the area, east of Charmouth, at around 6.30pm

The crew of a boat had seen the “significant rock fall” and spotted five people on the beach between Charmouth and Golden Cap despite all the recent warnings.

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat and Weymouth Coastguard sector manager, who were in the vicinity, also attended.

On arrival, the five people were identified, accounted for and asked to leave the area due to the continued risk. It was established that there were no other persons missing.

The `Rescue 106` helicopter and Lyme Lifeboat were released. A further family of four refused to depart from the vicinity and were dealt with by Dorset police officers.

Once additional warning signs were deployed, all remaining units were stood down.