RESORTS LOSE ACCOLADES DUE TO TESTING AND RED TAPE

NORTH Wales has lost its only Blue Flag beach and people are being advised not to swim at another nearby in 2025.

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE Countryside and Tourism Editor

The Blue Flag accolade is awarded annually to bathing beaches that meet certain criteria such as water quality, safety and site management.

Last year, Prestatyn Central in Denbighshire was the region's only beach to display a Blue Flag, highlighting its 'exceptional' qualities. It was among 24 Blue Flag beaches in Wales, with all the others south of Borth, Ceredigion.

But there was disappointing news for the resort's residents and visitors with the release of this year's Wales Coast Awards 2025, organised by Keep Wales Tidy.

Despite its popularity with watersports enthusiasts, the status of Prestatyn Central has been downgraded.

Instead, the four-mile beach has been handed a yellow and blue flag marking it out as the winner of a Seaside Award.

Bestowed on beaches that are clean, attractive and well-managed, this accolade highlights good rather than exceptional standards.

Also collecting a Seaside Award was nearby Rhyl East beach, another long and sandy beach. However, Rhyl Central beach, winner of the same award in 2024, was not listed this time.