A YOUNG WOMAN HAS been killed in a landslide near Burton Bradstock in Dorset, England.

Police were called to the scene shortly after 12.30pm yesterday and alerted that a person was trapped beneath the fallen rocks.

A search and rescue operation was subsequently launched and officers were aided by the Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, the Coast Guard and the Urban Search and Rescue Team from Devon and Somerset.

The 22-year-old woman’s body was recovered at 9.40pm. She had been reported missing from that area earlier in the day. Dorset Police said in a statement that they are supporting the woman’s family and the coroner’s office has been informed of the death.

“It is believed the incident was a tragic accident and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time,” the statement said.

Coastal paths and beaches in the area have been closed in the wake of the Burton Bradstock landslide. Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is advising people to stay away from the cliffs and from beaches nearby “as more landslips likely”.