White Cliffs vie to be the finest

The cliffs have been immortalised in song, literature and art

The White Cliffs of Dover in Kent have been nominated in a competition to find Britain's Finest Natural Wonder.

The dramatic feature is one of 10 attractions in the running along with the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland and Glasgow's Loch Lomond.

The famous cliffs stand guard at the gateway to England where millions pass each year on their journey to or from the continent.

The competition is being run by the Radio Times and Channel Five.

The cliffs are 300ft (90m) tall in places and can be seen in France across the English Channel.

They are traditionally seen as a symbol of the nation's strength and a reassuring sight to returning travellers. They have also been immortalised in song, literature and art.

Dr Andy Brown, chief executive of English Nature, said the nomination of the cliffs in the competition was well-deserved.

"The White Cliffs of Dover are recognised across the world and the stunning white chalk cliffs have played a major part in the history of understanding our own nation's geology," he said.

All the nominations will feature in the Channel Five series Britain's Finest, being broadcast throughout the summer.