Beaches in the North West scoop up Seaside Awards - but no Blue Flags

This year’s Seaside and Blue Flag awards have been announced, with 10 beaches in the North West securing Seaside Awards which are “presented to the best beaches in England”. But no beaches in the region secured a prestigious Blue Flag.

The awards, handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, acknowledge the quality of the sites, the management of the beaches and facilities which are available. A total of 136 beaches and one inland bathing water received Seaside Awards across England.

Both Blackpool South and Blackpool Central beaches bagged a Seaside Award, while Morecambe South Beach and St Annes Pier also received the award. Meanwhile the Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock in Liverpool awarded a Blue Flag, the only marina in England to secure the accolade.

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A total of 72 beaches across the country met the high standards required for a Blue Flag award - the world’s most recognised award for beaches, marinas and inland bathing waters. Two beaches - Sandbanks in Poole and Oddicombe in Torbay, Devon - have scooped the Blue Flag award every year since it was launched 37 years ago.

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “It’s wonderful to see the flags flying proudly over these 150 fantastic beaches that are a real asset to both residents and from visitors across the country. Blue Flag locations are free for all to enjoy, with visitors able to experience the same quality as destinations like Spain or Trinidad and Tobago without the environmental impact - or price tag - of flying.

“Seaside Awards are presented to the best beaches in England and celebrate the quality and