Part of Beachy Head could be put off limits just weeks after foot-and-mouth restrictions at the beauty spot near Eastbourne were lifted.

Council bosses today said they would fence off areas of Falling Sands, west of Beachy Head, if cracks are found in its cliff face.

It follows a major rock fall on Thursday evening which saw thousands of tons of rubble tumble.

Parts of the area reopened in April after being put out of bounds for more than a month because of the foot-and-mouth epidemic.

Council leader Graham Marsden said: "Public safety was not affected by the cliff fall, which has been caused by changes in temperature, general soil erosion and weathering.

"The public are urged to take heed of the various signs that are present both at the bottom of Falling Sands to stay away from potentially dangerous areas and at the top of Beachy Head that make them aware of the dangers of the cliff edge."

A spokesman for the Ramblers Association said: "It would be disappointing if parts of the area were fenced off so soon after the foot-and-mouth restrictions were lifted.

"But we understand it would be for ours and other people's safety."

Further details on restricted areas are available from the Tourist Information Centre on 01323 411400.