West Norfolk beaches given Seaside Awards

Two West Norfolk beaches have been given awards for their cleanliness and facilities.

The sands at Hunstanton and Wells are among 18 beaches in East Anglia to have been given Seaside Awards, although they were not among this year's list of Blue Flag winners.

The flags are due to be presented at a ceremony on Cromer Pier later today.

Allison Ogden-Newton, chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy, said: "Our research shows that nearly two thirds of parents would prefer to visit beaches with Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, so growing the number of beaches with an award is vital to encourage more families to visit our beautiful coastline.

“It’s brilliant to see so many beaches in the East of England and the rest of the country winning Blue Flag and Seaside Award status this year, thanks to dedication and hard work of beach staff and volunteers who work tireless to maintain the high standards.

"Hopefully next year we’ll see an even greater number joining us as we drive up standards across the board.”