Coastguard warns of 'risk to life' as huge 7ft sinkhole discovered on beach
A coastguard team are warning of a 'risk to life' after a huge 7ft sinkhole was discovered on a busy beach.
HM Coastguard Southend said they were called out at 4.40pm yesterday (June 12) after the pit was spotted on Shoebury East Beach, near Southend-on-Sea, Essex.
The hole had already been cordoned off when the Coastguard arrived and it is believed to be 9ft long, 7ft wide and 7ft deep.
Broken bottles, shells and a small metal spade were also found alongside the hole while some Facebook commenters suggested it could be man-made.
The Coastguard have warned beach-goers to keep their distance as the collapsing sand could trap them.
A HM Coastguard Southend spokesperson said: "Holes will collapse around you and the mix of water and sand will cement you in situ endangering life.
"We ask members of the public to remain well clear of the hole and ask parents to remind their children to not venture in any holes on the beach.
"Coastguard Officers reported their findings to Dover Maritime Coordination Centre (MRCC) along with photos and the items seen scattered around the hole and area. Southend Pier and Foreshore will be informed."
