A beach has been cordoned off after strong waves have created a steep drop in the sand.

Part of the sandy beach in Lyme Regis has been closed to the public by the town council after the ledge was formed.

The ledge has formed in the sand as strong waves and high tides have moved the beach around.

A spokesman for Lyme Regis Town Council said: “For the safety of beach users, we have cordoned off the steep ridge in the sand which has formed following recent storms.

“We are in discussions with engineers at Dorset Council, who are aware of the issue and are looking into what measures can be taken to level out the sand.

“In the meantime, we would advise the public to stay away from the area while it remains cordoned off.”

The same has happened at East Beach in West Bay, with a ledge forming from the cliffs towards the pier.

Rob Clarke, Dorset Council Engineer, said: “Sand ledges are a natural phenomenon associated with certain wave conditions. We are in the process of organising works to reprofile the beach at Lyme Regis and will be liaising with the town council on timings.

"We were pleased that the new coastal defences at West Bay performed well during the storm.”