Isle of Wight pub and park evacuated amid cliff collapse fears

• LIVE: Evacuation and closures in Shanklin amid cliff collapse fears

The public are being advised to avoid the area in and around Rylstone Gardens and the corresponding area below the cliffs.

Ground movement and cracks have been detected along the cliff top.

Police at Shanklin cliff top cordon (Image: Cllr Michael Beston)

Cllr Michael Beston, of Shanklin Central ward, said a concerned resident called him to report that a large crack, of some 3m in length and 8 inches wide, had formed within half an hour at the top the cliff, by the elevated wooden bench.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, alongside council officers, are in the area assessing the situation and as a precaution have closed the gardens. A cordon is in place.

Fisherman's Cottage at the bottom of the cliff was also evacuated, but is expected to reopen this evening.

Fisherman's Cottage at the base of the cliff below Rylstone Gardens in Shanklin (Image: Gavin Hackshaw)

Shanklin Chine is closed to the public, and the footpath from the road into the Chine is closed from Chine Avenue.

Road closures and barriers are in place to secure the areas and the public are asked to respect closures for their own and others safety.

At low tide, the public are advised not to walk near the bottom of the cliffs.