UK Ferry Tickets

Think of Britain’s beaches and what images come to mind? Overcrowding, litter and polluted waters? Smelly toilets, donkey rides and kiss-me-quick hats?

Apparently not, according to VisitBritain, which believes this outdated view of our seaside resorts could not be further from the truth. Our beaches are now so clean you could eat your dinner off them (but remember to take your litter away with you).

Domestic resorts are enjoying a renaissance and, this year, a record 221 beaches in England and the Channel Islands have been granted a Seaside Award. The awards scheme is run by Environmental Campaigns (ENCAMS) and judges beaches on such facilities as toilets, showers and access for the disabled. Winners must have high levels of cleanliness and the water has to meet standards laid down by European law.

And you may be surprised to hear that even Sizewell, home of the nuclear plant, has been given a clean bill of health for the past ten years. In a new guidebook to Britain’s beaches, Sizewell is described as a small, traditional fishing hamlet, featuring a long, quiet beach. It adds: “Sizewell is also famous for its power station which is home to a thriving colony of kittiwakes that can be viewed from the beach.”

All we need now is some sunshine and the Costas will be quaking in their boots.

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore

Saturday, April 9th, 2005