A huge sinkhole has appeared at a coastal beauty spot revealing a hidden underground beach.<br /><br />Erosion and landslips have left a gaping 40ft-wide hole in the cliffs at Whitburn, near Sunderland.<br /><br />The natural phenomenon, called Souter Hole, first appeared as a small sinkhole in 2003 but it has grown every year since. <br /><br />The hole is now so big a hidden beach has been revealed with the sea forcing its way through a crack in one of the cliff walls.<br /><br />The National Trust, which manages the cliff path around the sinkhole, are warning walkers and dog owners to avoid the area.<br /><br />Beach artist Clair Eason, a former GP, captured the true extent of the sinkhole while exploring the coastline near her home.<br /><br />She said: “This deep sink hole near Souter Point, South Shields, began as a small <br />hollow a few years ago. <br /><br />“It’s growing into a huge beast, adding even more drama to the rugged coastline.”<br /><br />The National Trust has been forced to cordone off the sinkhole which is close to the cliff coast path.<br /><br />A spokesperson said: “We want all of our visitors to have an enjoyable, relaxed and safe visit to Whitburn Coastal Park.<br /><br />“By its nature the coastline is constantly changing, with some areas particularly prone to erosion and landslips.<br /><br />"This sink hole first appeared around 2003 and is regularly surveyed. <br /><br />“We have put up fencing and warning signs around this sink hole, which is away from the main path running along the cliff tops of The Leas and Whitburn Coastal Park, <br />known locally as The Wherry.<br /><br />"There are warning signs at key points along the cliff edges, as well as visitor information panels in each car park.<br /><br />"We'd urge people to take a moment to look at these signs, and to stick to the main paths to keep themselves, their children, and their dogs safe."
