A WARNING has been issued after people were spotted clambering over warning signs on to an unsafe groyne.

Long Groyne at Hengistbury Head was closed off last year when voids were discovered in the foundations below the waterline.

But BCP Council and coastguard volunteers have now issued a warning.

"Keep clear of Hengistbury Head Long Groyne" said a BCP Council spokesman. "There is a risk of localised collapse.

"Astonishingly, there have been reports of people ignoring the 'DO NOT ENTER' sign. Please do not put yourself in danger by climbing over the barriers onto the groyne, or by fishing from the groyne at anytime - it is unsafe.

There are plans to repair and upgrade the 80-year-old groyne as part of the Poole Bay Beach Management Scheme.

It is critical to controlling coastal erosion in Poole and Christchurch bays but cannot perform effectively in its current condition.

Work is due to take place next year when the structure will be raised in height to help provide protection for a predicted rise in sea levels.

Without the long groyne, beach material would rapidly wash away and the cliffs could start to erode again within a year.