COASTGUARDS have sealed off a section of Swanage seafront following a “significant” landslip near the Grand Hotel.

A landslide was reported around 4pm yesterday (Friday), and at 8am this morning in the same area. It is not thought anyone has been injured.

The beach between Ocean Bay restaurant and Shep's Hollow has been sealed off amid fears the cliff could subside further at any moment.

Locals told the Daily Echo it was hard to tell how much of the cliffs had come down as it happened after dark and the area is now cordoned off.

Portland coastguard watch manager John Braisher confirmed: “There has been a significant landfall near the hotel and we have officers on scene to seal of the area.

“We don’t know how much has come down as we are still assessing the area but we’d ask people to stay away as it is dangerous in every aspect.

“It may have come down over the public path and spilt onto the beach. We are waiting for confirmation.”

Coastguards have warned heavy rains may make part of the coastal paths perilous this weekend.

Mr Braisher said: “The message we want to get out is that anyone taking recreation in the area over the Christmas period, please be wary and do not approach this landslip at Swanage.

“Keep in the back of your mind, especially with the weather forecast this weekend, that the coastline right away across our area is extremely fragile.

“Take your leisure time, but bear in mind we don’t want any disasters.”