Woman pronounced dead at the scene after falling from cliff above popular beach in Dorset

A woman has tragically passed away after falling from a cliff at a popular tourist spot on the Dorset coast.

Police are investigating the incident, although the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a local landowner said that warning signs along the coast are ignored “far too regularly”.

Where did this happen?

Local police, fire and coast guard crews all responded to the incident, which took place at around 3pm on Monday at Durdle Moor, near Lulworth.

A Dorset Police spokeswoman said: “At 3.07pm on Monday Dorset Police received a report that a woman had fallen from a cliff at Durdle Door near Lulworth.

“Officers attended together with other emergency services colleagues.

“Sadly, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Officers are investigating the circumstances of this tragic incident.”

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the incident took place on cliffs above Man O War beach, a popular spot for tourists and locals.

A spokesperson said that two fire crews and a technical rescue team were dispatched to the scene.

‘A tragic accident’

Man O War beach is part of the Lulworth Estate, owned by James Weld, who described the incident as a “tragic accident,” and said warning signs along the coast are ignored “far too regularly”.

Speaking to Swanage News, he said: “Although Dorset Police are investigating, the reports we have received this morning would suggest that this was a tragic accident as a woman attempted to climb down the cliffs above Man o’ War beach, despite many endeavouring to call to her to stop and stay where she was.

“Whatever the circumstances, such a tragedy affects us all and our hearts go out to her family.

“The emergency services responded promptly to the many calls they received.

“Our car parks and routes to the coast have warning signs to stay away from the cliffs and to avoid sitting directly beneath them. We would re-emphasise our safety messages for visitors to respect the inherent risks of our natural environment whether the sea or the cliffs themselves.

“Far too regularly warning signs are ignored, even when reminded by our Rangers, on occasions leading to unnecessary and tragic consequences when they have come to enjoy the Dorset coastline.”