A dog has died after falling from cliffs near Exmouth on Saturday, despite the best efforts of coastguard rescue teams.

Coastguard rescue teams from Exmouth and Beer were sent to Orcombe point at around 9.09pm yesterday (August 15).

Exmouth's rescue team arrived at the scene first but sadly found the dog had perished as a result of the fall.

The incident at Orcombe Point is the second such incident to take place locally in 10 days, prompting a strongly worded warning to dog owners from the Coastguard.

A spokesperson for Exmouth Coastguard Rescue Team said: "This is our second distressing call in 10 days to dogs over the cliff where they have died as a result. Please keep your dogs on a short lead on the cliff tops!

"If you do find yourself in a similar situation do not attempt a self rescue, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We are fully trained and equipped to deal with these situations."

A spokesperson for Beer Coast Guard Rescue Team said: "Exmouth team were first on scene and located the dog on the beach, unfortunately the dog was deceased. As a rope rescue was not required we were stood down and returned to station.

"Our thoughts are with the owners. If you're walking your dogs on the cliffs please keep them on a lead at all times."