Local beaches awarded Blue Flags

Eight beaches in Northern Ireland have been awarded Blue Flags on meeting the guideline standards.

Last year the same number of awards were given to beaches with litter-free sands and bathing waters.

Portrush East Strand, which missed out last year, was added, while Downhill Beach has gone off the list.

Ballycastle and Carrickfergus, two marinas, also received the honour for their good facilities and cleanliness.

Chief Executive of Tidy Northern Ireland the charity responsible for Blue Flag, Ian Cole said: “It’s great that we can offer beach and sailing enthusiasts such good places to visit.

“It is a testament to the growing popularity and credibility of the awards. But also the hard work that those who look after our beaches and marinas put in to maintain such high standards.”

Blue Flag is an international award which runs in 36 countries across the globe and 29 different criteria must be met.

These include litter-free sands, bathing water that meets guideline standard and well-maintained facilities and life-saving equipment.

(JM/SP)