Sidmouth Town beach achieves Blue Flag status

Sidmouth Town beach is among 14 in Devon that have been awarded Blue Flag status for 2021.

The independently-assessed seal of approval is given to beaches that achieve very high standards of cleanliness, safe access and appropriate signage.

Blue Flag beaches also meet high environmental standards and tough international bathing water quality standards.

Winning beaches had to run a minimum of five educational activities for the local community and visitors.

Keep Britain Tidy's chief executive Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: "This year, more than ever, we are going to be relying on our country's beautiful beaches to escape for a much-needed break after all the stresses and strains of the past year.

"From environmental education for the local community and ensuring responsible beach use, to cleaning regimes and an increasing number of recycling facilities, it is a full-time commitment to create beaches worthy of these awards.

"As we all plan our 2021 holidays much closer to home, thanks to the Blue Flag and Seaside Award those choosing to holiday at a destination with an award-winning beach can be assured it will be clean and safe and meet the highest standards for water quality and management."

The other beaches in Devon that have achieved the award are Blackpool Sands near Dartmouth, Exmouth Sandy Bay, Exmouth Town, Challaborough Bay, Dawlish Warren, Teignmouth Town, Breakwater Beach in Brixham, Broadsands in Paignton, Meadfoot Beach, Oddicombe Beach, Preston Sands, Torre Abbey Sands and Westward Ho!