People are being warned to avoid climbing sand dunes or digging into them as they could be unstable.

Several organisations have also advised people to avoid climbing or sitting at the base of dunes as they could be prone to collapse.

Sand dunes normally have a sloping profile to the beach but many dune systems have been eroded away and left with near vertical or even overhanging edges facing seaward.

“The dunes will in time settle through a natural process and slump to form gentler slopes to the beach, however, at present their sheer edges are very unstable and may risk sudden collapse,” they said.

Hemsby Independent Lifeboat coxswain Daniel Hurd has urged people to avoid climbing the dunes. Not only are they the last line of protection from the sea for some homes, but they pose a high risk of injury for climbers.

Mr Hurd said: "Our concern is that with the debris, broken glass and metal spikes left from the recently demolished homes, someone is going to get seriously hurt.

Last year, Mr Hurd said a large number of people required first aid treatment after they had climbed on the dunes.

Our beaches are still there to be enjoyed in the holidays but please supervise children carefully and do not climb on the dunes.