Landslides such as this one at West Lulworth are possible, the Met Office said. Photo: Chris Downer CC-BY-SA-2.0

Walkers in south-west England are being warned to take care after the Met Office issued a landslide warning.

The official Government weather forecasters said continued heavy rain had made many coastal cliffs unstable.

Following advice from the British Geological Survey, the Met Office said rockfalls and collapsing edges were a danger for walkers in coastal areas.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “We have had such heavy and persistent rainfall over the last few days and weeks and that there is a danger of landslides and rockfall along the coast, even on coastal paths.

“We are advising Boxing Day walkers in the south-west of England to take particular care in these dangerous conditions, especially those not familiar with the area.

“Do not get too close to the cliff edge or walk under the cliff face along the beach and remember that coastal paths could be impacted too.”