Morecambe's beaches among the best in the UK
Lancaster City Council has scooped a top award that places two of Morecambe’s beaches among the best in the UK.
Seaside Awards recognise and award beaches in England that achieve the highest standards of beach management.
Keep Britain Tidy today announced that Morecambe's North (Clock Tower) and South (Stone Jetty to the Battery) beaches are two of 10 North West beaches to have received an award for offering visitors great facilities alongside a litter free and safe environment.
Both beaches passed strict new water quality standards in 2015 and the city council is calling on residents and businesses to help maintain this in 2016.
Weekly tests are carried out by the Environment Agency to ensure water quality complies with the 2015 European Bathing Water Directive.
To help keep the beaches clean and comply with the Seaside Award requirements, dog owners are also reminded that their pets are banned from the two beaches until September 30.
Coun Darren Clifford, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, culture and tourism, said: “Our coastline is vital in attracting visitors to the town and we are delighted to have received a Seaside Award for both Morecambe's North and South beaches.
"The standards of these beaches are testament to all those who work hard throughout the year to ensure they can be enjoyed by residents, visitors and holiday-makers alike.
“There is, however, much more to do if we are to achieve our ambition of having an excellent rating in the future.
The LOVEmyBEACH campaign is a great way for anyone who lives, works or visits Morecambe to make a difference and help improve our two designated Bathing Waters. Please visit www.lovemybeach.org to find out more.
If you run a business and would like to pledge your support, please contact Emma McColm, LOVEmyBEACH Co-ordinator for your free checklist. emma@morecambebay.org.uk
These simple steps can help LOVEmyBEACH:
* Only flush the 3Ps down the toilet – poo, pee and paper. Everything else goes in the bin!
* Don’t pour cooking fat down the sink – it can cause blockages
* Check your drains are connected right at www.connectright.org.uk
* Pick up after your dog and put it in the bin
* Don’t feed birds at the beach and keep outdoor areas free of food waste
* Put litter in the bin
Last updated: 19 May 2016