Fears of a cliff collapse have been sparked after a fresh chalkfall was found on a Kent beach.

Concerns were raised after a walker discovered the pile of chalk rocks at the base of a cliff in Broadstairs.

Photos show the extent of the fall, which has opened up an overhang on the cliffs.

Philip Heath-Hall made the discovery after taking his dog down to Kingsgate bay beach yesterday.

"The base has collapsed so it can't be long before the top goes," he said.

"The tide comes right in to where the chalk is, so it is only visible from the beach when the tide begins to go out.

"It is between Kingsgate and Botany bay, just to the left of the arch."

After images were shared on social media, a number of people warned that the scene could present dangers to anyone walking nearby.

One man said: "Given how many people go down that way to take pictures of the arch, I worry that it will come down at the wrong time.

"I hope the council or coastguard are aware and can do something about it."

A woman, who regularly walks the route, added: "This has been developing for some time but has collapsed fully now.

"You would hope the top will hold together longer because of the grass and plants up there, but it's risky."

A Thanet council spokesman said: "Cliff falls are linked to coastal erosion and can occur at any time of the year. It is a naturally occurring process and chalk falls of this size are not uncommon on the unprotected sections of Thanet’s coastline.

"This particular chalk fall has occurred where the approved shoreline management policy is that there will be no intervention in coastal erosion. This policy is in line with national guidance on shoreline management. The fallen chalk will be left in place and will be gradually broken down and distributed by wave and tidal action. This natural process of erosion by the sea contributes to the sediments which are an important part of our natural coastal environment.

"Our advice to members of the public is to stay well clear of the edge and base of cliffs at all times when visiting Thanet’s beaches."