THERE is concern over whether Aberystwyth’s beaches will still be able to win Blue Flag status after the UK voted to leave the EU.

Speaking at a meeting of the town council last week, Cllr Endaf Edwards said there were now many unknowns, but reiterated that the Blue Flag award had become important for maintaining good water quality.

Cllr Edwards said: “The water quality standards for the Blue Flag are part of the EU framework, and unless the UK Parliament legislates for this within UK law, we may not be part of the Blue Flag framework anymore.”

Cllr Martin Shewring complained about the fact Aberystwyth South Beach had once again missed out on a Blue Flag award, but Cllr Ceredig Davies called on councillors “to be careful” in what they say.

“South Beach is only entered for a Seaside Award because of the effect of being at the mouth of the Ystwyth and Rheidol rivers,” Cllr Davies added. “We need to be very careful what we say in public meetings.”

For more on how Brexit could affect Ceredigion and Powys, see this week’s south editions, available in shops and online tomorrow