A major cliff fall at West Bay was one of several along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast during 2021. Around 500 tonnes of rock were reported to have fallen from the 120-foot East Cliff.
The sandstone cliff is one of West Bay’s most recognisable landmarks and featured prominently in ITV’s Broadchurch.
Why the West Bay cliffs fall
Rockfalls and landslips are a natural and unpredictable part of this coastline. Rain, waves and weather gradually weaken the sandstone, causing sections of the cliff to break away without warning.
Visitors should follow local warning signs, keep to marked paths and stay well away from both the cliff edge and the base of the cliffs.
Creating Running the Gauntlet
I took the final photograph in mid-December 2021, about a month after the fall. A lone figure was walking beneath East Cliff, between the towering sandstone on one side and the sea on the other.
The scene immediately suggested the title Running the Gauntlet.
View the Running the Gauntlet print, available as a professional photographic print or framed wall art with free UK delivery.