Walkers have been warned to avoid the county’s cliff edges after a landslide hit a beach and unearthed a fossil.

Thanet District Council (TDC) sounded the alarm after a large chunk of chalk slipped in Dumpton Gap, between Ramsgate and Broadstairs,

Explaining the debris could cut off hikers from a path in high tide, the authority said cliff falls are linked to erosion and occur at any time of the year.

It comes while work is set to start in the spring to avoid the “catastrophic failure” of key sea defences and protect homes from flooding and cliff collapses.

The £1.2 million project is planned for Viking Bay, Broadstairs harbour, and will encompass a section of coastal path leading to Dumpton Gap, near Ramsgate.

Cabinet members this year approved the release of funds which have been provided by grants from the Environment Agency, with the scheme set to start from April to June.

Speaking of the recent cliff fall, a TDC spokesperson said: “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 in a location where the approved shoreline management policy is to leave the fallen chalk in place. This policy is in line with national guidance.

“The fallen chalk 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.

“Members of the public are advised to stay well clear of the edge and base of cliffs at all times when visiting Thanet’s beaches.

“Beach walkers should be aware of the increased risk of being cut off by the tide due to the fallen chalk.”