Shocking photographs show a sightseer sitting on a 400-foot chalk cliff puffing on a cigarette with his feet dangling over the edge.

The alarming picture was taken at Birling Gap where there are warnings about the “fragile” and “soft” chalk. 

Photographer JJ Waller captured the scenes just miles from two recent cliff collapses.

These happened at nearby Seaford Head and Peacehaven, which prompted councils to team up with HM Coastguard and launch a campaign about the dangers of unstable chalk cliffs.

Their warnings seem to have been ignored with images showing people continuing to walk right up to the edge. 

Mr Waller said: “This is almost a daily occurrence despite the warnings. 

“Visitors aren’t aware of how soft the chalk is and crowds flock to this spot in search of the all-important selfies. 

The Argus: The man can be seen with his legs dangling over the edgeThe man can be seen with his legs dangling over the edge (Image: SWNS)

“But while it is a beautiful location, it demands respect and care. Never go by the edge.” 

Further safety warnings have been issued following the photos by Mr Waller from Good Friday, with East Sussex County Council warning that chalk can fall “at any time with no warning”.

A council spokesman said: “We continue to see people getting perilously close to the edge of the cliffs without realising the dangers.

“The cliffs contain many overhangs and cracks that visitors may not be able to see, and the unstable chalk can fall at any time with absolutely no warning.

“Do not ignore the signs and keep well away from the edge.

“Getting the perfect selfie is not worth taking a risk with your life.” 

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said getting “a dramatic picture” was not worth the risk.

“The cliffs along the UK coastline are continually eroding, with pieces falling from them that can be just a few small rocks or as large as a car,” a spokesman said. 

“We really can’t stress enough how important it is to keep back from the edge. There is no ‘safe’ place to be.

“If cracks have appeared even if they are several feet away from the edge, don’t be tempted to go and investigate and don’t risk going to the edge to get a dramatic picture. 

“Please enjoy your coastal walk, but make sure you and your loved ones come home again safely.”

The agency added that particular care should be exercised after periods of rainfall, as this will make cliff edges even more vulnerable.