Marsden cliff collapse reports sparks emergency call out to under-threat coastline

Further checks have been made at a section of coastline which is at risk of falling into the sea.

By Fiona.Thompson

Published 7th Jul 2019, 10:23 BST- 1 min read

Updated 7th Jul 2019, 13:55 BST

Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team was alerted to a report a section of the cliffs at Marsden had crumbled due to coastal erosion.

The officers were called out to check the area just after 6pm yesterday, Saturday, July 6, to investigate the area between Marsden and Souter.

The area at the top of the cliffs has already been cordoned off by South Tyneside Council following concerns a sea cave could collapse, with the area of The Leas between the Marsden Grotto and Souter Lighthouse taped off to keep people safe.

A photo issued by Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team following the call out to Marsden over fears the cliff had collapsed.

Sea cave collapse warning as path closed between Marsden Grotto and Souter Light...

The National Trust, which owns The Leas, has echoed the appeal for visitors to keep back from the area over the concerns.

The Coastguard has issued a reminder to visitors to keep to the paths in the wake of the fresh alert.

A spokesperson said: “With no visible find of further cliff erosion found the team was able to stand down.

The section of coastline between the Marsden Grotto and Souter Lighthouse has been cordoned off following safety concerns.

“The public are to be aware that the area on top of the cliffs remains cordoned off due to a previous fall earlier in the week and that for everyone’s safety you are to follow the diversions in place utilising the public footpaths.”

The service has also said people should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard in all coastal emergencies.