Three beaches lose blue flag status

Thirteen beaches have blue flag status in the ITV Anglia region.

The Blue Flag Awards, given to Britain's cleanest beaches have been announced and three beaches in our region have had theirs taken away.

Chalkwell in Essex, Jubilee Beach in Southend, and the beach by Southwold Pier in Suffolk made the grade last year, but have fallen short this time round.

Across the country, the number of beaches achieving blue flag status has increased, but it will be harder next year for those without a blue flag to regain their status, because tougher water quality standards are being introduced.

Sponsored by the Keep Britain Tidy campaign, 13 beaches in the East were recognised for their cleanliness.

Thirteen beaches have been awarded blue flags. Credit: ITV Anglia