PEOPLE have been warned about the danger of taking selfies at the top of a cliff which has an enormous crack in it.

Members of the public have been told not to take photographs of themselves near the cliff edge at Birling Gap, as the crack continues to grow.

Anyone planning to pose for a social media snap has been told to think again amid fears the cliff could soon collapse.

The Argus:

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said that “selfie culture” is one of the biggest challenges currently faced by its crews.

A spokeswoman told The Argus: “No selfie is worth risking your life for.

"Use the designated paths, take notice of any warning signs, be responsible and don’t take any unnecessary risks.”

The Argus:

A recent increase in the size of the crack at Birling Gap, near the Belle Tout lighthouse, has also prompted an urgent alert from the local coastguard.

Birling Gap Coastguard said there was very little left to support the precarious precipice and it could soon collapse.

A spokesman said: "We are aware of a huge crack in the cliff face.

"The cliffs in the area are massively unstable, whether or not there is a visible crack.

The Argus:

"This section is ready to collapse.

“Under many parts of the cliff, there are sections missing which are not visible from the top and therefore the cliffs are supported by nothing but thin air.

"We would like everyone who visits the coast to enjoy it but also respect the dangers.

"Please stay as far away from cliff edges as possible with the same advice for being true under the cliffs.

"In a coastal emergency dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."