Four East Devon beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status, meaning they meet international quality standards.

The beaches in Seaton, Beer, Exmouth and Sidmouth have achieved the award which is only given to those with the highest quality of water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management. 

In addition, the national charity Keep Britain Tidy has given Seaside Awards to Seaton, Budleigh and Beer; these awards are presented to the best beaches in England.

Exmouth has now achieved Blue Flag status for five years running, while this is the fourth year for Sidmouth. Last year was the first time Seaton was awarded the Blue Flag and it has repeated it again this year. 

Cllr Geoff Jung, Coast, Country and Environment Portfolio Holder, said: “I’m delighted that our residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the super beaches East Devon has to offer and can be confident they are clean, safe and well managed. Many of our beaches have received these accolades year after year and that is testament to the hard work of our council officers, as well as the many volunteers, lifeguards and local businesses who work together to ensure these beaches have some of the highest standards in the country. Now we just need the sun to stay out so we can all enjoy our fantastic beaches in their prime!”

Beach Safety Officer Pete Blyth said “This is a fantastic recognition of the efforts of both our staff and partners in the local community.  There are too many local groups and organisations involved in this success to call them all out by name, but I’d like to thank everyone who has given their time and commitment to help keep our beaches safe and enjoyable for us all."

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said: ““The Blue Flag is the world’s most recognised award for beaches and marinas and, to qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. We’d therefore like to recognise and applaud all those who have worked so hard to protect and improve some of our best-loved and most popular beaches.”