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Sandhaven Beach is to fly the prestigious Blue Flag for the 2022 summer season after being named among the best beaches in the country.

The stunning tourist attraction at South Shields seafront has secured international Blue Flag status from leading environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy.

The Blue Flag awards, which are now in their 35^th year, act as a quality mark for beaches and means that visitors can be sure that they boast top notch facilities, are clean and safe and meet the highest environmental standards.

For many people going to the beach also means a dip in the sea. The awards acknowledge that Sandhaven has met touch international bathing water quality standards.

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, said: "Sandhaven is one of our Borough's best assets, attracting thousands of visitors every year. It's wonderful news that it has secured the Blue Flag.

"The flag flying acts as a guarantee that South Tyneside has one of the best beaches in the world and is a ringing endorsement of the quality experience and superb facilities that visitors to Sandhaven can enjoy.

"These awards are not given out lightly; they are difficult to achieve.

"Our staff and partners work extremely hard to help keep our seafront to a standard that keeps people returning whenever they can. The Blue Flag is recognition of their commitment and dedication to making sure the area is clean and safe for both residents and visitors alike.

"We also recognise that while the Blue Flag is based on high quality standards in the area, this award could not be achieved without the involvement of our local businesses and volunteers who work with us in ensuring our foreshore, beach and local facilities offer a great visitor attraction. This award celebrates all those efforts. Well done to all those involved."

Sandhaven is listed among seven beaches in the northeast, and 80 across the UK, to receive the international Blue Flag award.

Keep Britain Tidy's Chief Executive Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: "The success of these beaches in reaching the very high standards demanded is testament to all those who have worked so hard to protect and improve our blue spaces - from beach managers and volunteers to local residents and businesses.

"The huge commitment needed to maintain marvellous beaches worthy of these awards cannot be underestimated.

"People who visit a beach flying a Blue Flag or Seaside Award can be assured the beach will be clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards, as well as international bathing water quality standards."

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