Visitors to a beach made famous by the BBC series Poldark have been urged to stay well away from a cliff fall which has destroyed a beachside cave in Cornwall.

Holywell Cave was an ancient and cherished natural landmark at Holywell Bay near Newquay where locals and tourists visited the hollow for many years.

A major cliff fall, which happened over the bank holiday weekend, has caused tonnes of stone to collapse and cover the cave entrance.

The cave, also known as St Cuthbert's Cave, had been tucked under the southern cliffs of Kelsey Head.

The sight of the cliff fall over a beloved cave has sparked sadness from many residents and tourists. Chris Barnard, who lives near Callington, Cornwall, told the BBC: "I was shocked when I first saw the photographs because it's such an iconic location and such a popular location.

"The fact it's gone is not nice... it's gone forever.

"The collapse must have happened overnight because, if people were inside, it could have been a catastrophe."

Another person wrote: “This is so sad, an important part of Cornish history wiped out.”

Holywell was used in Poldark, which was seen to be owned by Ross’s rivals, the Warleggans. It features in Series 4 and 5 of the BBC drama, most notably as the spot where Drake Carne secretly meets Morwenna, and in dramatic scenes involving Ross Poldark.

The famous twin offshore islands of Carter’s and Gulls Rocks provide a dramatic backdrop to the show’s action.

The National Trust, which is the guardian of the cave, said: "We are aware of the substantial cliff fall at Holywell Bay and are monitoring the situation closely.

“Our priority is the safety of visitors and we urge people to stay well back from the affected area, both on the beach and from clifftop paths, as the cliff remains unstable and further rock falls are possible.

"We know Holywell Cave is a much-loved feature of this coastline and many people will be saddened by what has happened. At present the cave is completely covered by the rock fall and is inaccessible."

Newquay Coastguard said: "Sadly overnight a substantial rock fall has sealed off the cave to Holy Well on Holywell Beach.

"This area is still unstable and we advise that you to stay clear of this rockfall.

"Heavy rain after a prolonged dry spell may lead to further incidents along the coast path. Keep clear of the edge whilst walking along the top of cliffs and stay clear of the bottom.

"If you see someone in difficulty along the coast, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."