I posed for this romantic picture with my girlfriend - seconds later we almost died, it was like a nightmare

A COUPLE who posed for a romantic photo nearly died - when a sea railing collapsed.

Stunned Ben Walsh, 40, and girlfriend Laura Taylor, 38, were strolling along the promenade when they stopped for a scenic snap.

But as the picture was being taken, the railing the couple were leaning against gave way - leaving Ben dangling head-first above a 15-foot drop.

Ben had to be pulled back to safety by his ankles by his terrified family.

The couple took a photo afterwards showing the broken banister in Gourock, Inverclyde, Scotland.

Shocked Ben said: "Laura went forwards and I went backwards. I fell towards the edge but somehow managed to save myself by wrapping my leg round the pole.

"My mum, dad and Laura were screaming for help and pulled me to safety with the help of two passers by running