Mayo beaches retain 11 Blue Flags

THE Blue Flag will fly at 11 Mayo beaches this year.

All of the county's Blue Flag beaches have retained the prestigious award, An Taisce has announced.

They are: Bertra, Clare Island, Dooega, Dugort, Elly Bay, Keel, Keem, Mullaghroe, Mulranny, Old Head and Ross Beach.

Nine beaches were also awarded Green Coast awards: Carrowniskey Beach, Cross Beach (Erris Peninsula), Rinroe , Srah, Termon, Tranaun (Inishturk), Cross (Louisburgh), Portacloy, and Achill's Golden Strand.

The Blue Flag programme aims to raise environmental awareness and promote sound environmental management of beaches, marinas and eco-tourism boats around the world.

Recipients must adhere to specific criteria in the areas of water quality, waste management, biodiversity protection, education, information, safety, and accessibility, helping participating destinations and tourism service providers lead the way in sustainable coastal management.