HEAVY rainfall over the past week has increased the risk of cliff falls occurring along the west Dorset coast.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued further warnings after the county was battered by Storm Bella at the weekend.

The storm which brought heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 80mph caused disruption across Dorset.

The warning comes after a huge section of cliff fell at Hive Beach just before Christmas. That was the third significant rockfall along that stretch of coast since August.

A MCA spokesman said: "Some sections of our coastline are particularly vulnerable to cliff falls and landslips and these tend to be more frequent after heavy rain which has fallen on already saturated land.

"HM Coastguard is advising the public to take great care when walking near cliffs.

"Be careful when walking on cliff top paths or down on the beach if you are walking below cliffs. Give the cliffs a wide berth and take note of any warning signs in place. Do not get yourself too close to cliff edges, as they could be unstable and crumble away under your feet."

A Dorset Council spokesman said: "The Jurassic Coast is a wonderful place to visit, but it's important to use common sense and caution – stay away from the edge and base of cliffs and always pay attention to warning signs and safety messages."