A DORSET coastal path is crumbling as clifftops are battered by Storm Dennis.

Coastguards raised the alarm on Saturday afternoon, and the area has been closed to the public amid safety fears.

Officials have been out investigating the situation, and have also reported a mud slip on the nearby beach. 

A Dorset Council spokesman said: "Colleagues are out now to take a look and close it off.

"It's stating the obvious, but please keep away from cliffs. There's a high risk of rock falls and land slips."

In an update today, a spokesman added, "Situation changing rapidly due to weather. More cliff falls and land slips likely. Please avoid the area."

Weather warnings remain in place for Dorset throughout the weekend. For latest updates see our live blog.