Thanet has received more Blue Flag awards for its beaches than anywhere else in the country this year.

Ten beaches have received the prestigious award, which is only given to those with the highest quality in water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management.

Last year Thanet got seven Blue Flags.

For the first time, Joss Bay in Broadstairs has achieved the accolade.

Ramsgate Main Sands has received its first Blue Flag since 2004, while Walpole Bay in Margate also receives an award for the first time since 2006.

Other beaches which will be flying the flag this summer are Botany Bay and Stone Bay in Broadstairs, Margate Main Sands, Minnis Bay in Birchington, St Mildred’s Bay and West Bay in Westgate and Westbrook Bay.

It’s the best performance by any one area in the country since 2000.

The achievement was highlighted with a focus on the area’s beaches on national TV on Sunday on BBC Countryfile.

Cllr Roger Latchford, cabinet member for culture and economy, said: “Our beaches are one of our area’s greatest assets. They help to bring literally millions of visitors into Thanet, with our latest figures showing we’re attracting nearly three million people each year."

The Blue Flag scheme is administered by Keep Britain Tidy in England.

Dickie Felton from Keep Britain Tidy, said: "Thanet has more Blue Flag beaches than anywhere else in the country. It is a fantastic achievement."