DICING WITH DEATH
Shocking moment three young boys hurl stones from the edge of 200ft-high ‘Broadchurch cliffs’ towards people on the beach below
THIS is the shocking moment three young boys hurl rocks onto beach-goers from the 200ft-high cliffs that feature in Broadchurch.
The yobs’ antics at West Bay, Dorset were captured on drone footage.
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The trio, who appear to be about 12 years old, can be seen perilously close to the edge of the cliff face before one chucks a missile over the side - narrowly missing someone below.
The clip was filmed by James Loveridge on a visit to the beauty spot that featured prominently in the hit ITV crime drama.
He said: "Once I realised they were throwing rocks I went and spoke to them and told them there were people on the beach below.
"They said they were throwing rocks into the sea, but clearly it wasn't possible for them to reach that far.
"I didn't see any parents or older children with them up the cliff.
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"This wasn't the first time I've seen people close to the edge of the cliffs throwing rocks.
"I can't work out if the kid slips and nearly falls off, or his friend pushed him and holds on to him.
"It's about time something was done about it. Every time I go to West Bay there are kids right on the edge or throwing stuff off.
"There is no signage at the top of the cliff warning people, or fencing stopping people going to the edge."
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Jake Lanning, the deputy station officer at West Bay coastguard, said: "This footage is frightening to see as a coastguard and as a father. We want everyone to enjoy themselves and the coast but do it responsibly.
"There are clear warning signs at the base of the cliff warning about the dangers of potential rock falls. Fencing is a challenging issue because the coastline is not owned by the coastguard.
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"Apart from fencing and signage people need to have common sense as well.
"Enjoy the coast and have a good summer but do it responsibly.
"If you do see someone at risk, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard - we would rather be called out a thousand time and issue advice than one time when it's too late."
There have been a number of rock falls at the site in recent years, most notoriously in July 2012 when holidaymaker Charlotte Blackman was crushed to death.
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