Five Ceredigion beaches have been awarded Blue Flags.

Both Aberystwyth North and Borth beaches retained their prestigious Blue Flag awards, while also receiving the Seaside Award.

The prestigious awards also went to New Quay Harbour, Llangrannog and Tresaith.

Another 11 beaches received Seaside Awards: Clarach, Aberystwyth South, Llanrhystud, New Quay Harbour and Dolau beaches, Llangrannog, Cilborth, Tresaith, Aberporth, Penbryn and Mwnt.

Blue Flag status is the highest honour that can be presented to beaches based on water quality, safety, cleanliness and facilities.

The Seaside Award recognises high standards in cleanliness and facilities, and ensures visitors they are guaranteed to find a clean, attractive and well-managed beach.

Three beaches in Ceredigion were also awarded the Green Coast award: Llanrhystud, Mwnt and Cilborth.

For this award, beaches must meet the highest water quality standard and are judged by the provision of facilities for beach users along with demonstrating good management and safety provision.

Arwyn Davies, Ceredigion County Council’s corporate manager for growth and enterprise, said: “Tourism is a major contributor to the Ceredigion economy, bringing in over £310m to the local economy every year.

“Ceredigion’s coastline, our coast path and superb beaches are amongst the county’s greatest assets in terms of attracting visitors.

“The coastal awards, be they Blue Flags, Green Coast or Seaside Awards, provide an indication of the quality of our beaches.

“The council is committed to working with our partners and coastal communities to ensure that the high standards required to achieve award status are met.”

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