At just after 12.30pm on Tuesday 24 July 2012,
Dorset Police were called to a report from coastguard of a
landslide 400 metres from the Freshwater Beach Holiday Park, Burton
Bradstock in Bridport. HM
Coastguard were advised by the caller that a person was trapped
under the fallen rocks.
Officers, with assistance from the
Police Helicopter, are currently working alongside Dorset Fire and
Rescue Service and HM
Coastguard to search the area. The Urban Search and Rescue Team
(USAR) from Devon and Somerset has also been deployed to this
incident. This is a national resource.
UPDATE:
At approximately 9.40pm on Tuesday, 24 July 2012, search crews
located a body on Burton Bradstock beach.
The body is believed to be that of a 22 year-old woman, reported
missing earlier in the day following the landslide at the
location.
Next of kin are aware and family liaison officers are supporting
the family. The coroner has been informed.
At this time there are no further reports of missing people at the
location and the search operation will now be stood down.
It is believed the incident was a tragic accident and our thoughts
are with the family at this very difficult time.
The Dorset Local Resilience forum which comprises Dorset Police,
Dorset Fire and Rescue, all local councils and HM Coastguard
amongst others, is advising residents and visitors to West Dorset
to avoid cliffs and beaches with a cliff backdrop, following the
significant landslide today.