Tide cut-off warning signs over sandbank

Signs have been put up on a Dorset beach warning of the dangers of a sandbank.

The large bank has appeared recently off Mudeford's Avon Beach at low tides between Mudeford Spit and Avon Beach.

BCP Council has placed the warning signs along a stretch of the beach warning of the fast-flowing tides and the danger of the tidal cut-off.

The bank is submerged in fast-rising tides, leaving people who have waded or swum out to it stranded and cut-off from the beach.

RNLI Mudeford Lifeboat urged visitors to check the safety signs on the beach and quay advising where it was safe to swim.

The volunteer crew said: "If you see anyone in trouble on the sandbank or in the water do not hesitate to call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

Hengistbury Head National Coastwatch Station, which covers the beach in its watch area, said: "The new sand bar is particularly dangerous during spring tides when the flood and ebb can be very fast... but even smaller tides can quickly cause problems."

The sandy beach is lifeguarded daily between 19 July - 7 September from 10:00 - 18:00 BST.

You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.